Adam El-Abd has backed Albion’s next generation to show they have got what it takes to make the grade.

Grant Hall was among the substitutes for the first time in the Boxing Day defeat at Reading and the continuing player crisis means he will be in the squad again for today’s trip to Coventry City.

The 20-year-old former Lewes defender is expected to be joined on the bench by either Jake Forster-Caskey, 17, Yaser Kasim, 20, or Anton Rodgers, 18, with Albion missing nine senior players through either injury or suspension.

El-Abd and Lewis Dunk have both progressed from the youth team ranks to become first team regulars for the Seagulls and the defender is confident the club’s current youngsters can emulate their success.

He said: “There is an awful lot of quality in that development squad and youth team and I’m sure it won’t be long before they are coming through. I did a bit of training with them on the road back from injury and there is a few who will not be out of their depth.

“I’m sure it is only a matter of time before they start to come through. Lewis has come in and done fantastic this season and that should give all the young lads a lot of confidence because they have seen it can be done.

“Grant has got a great attitude. He is a great trainer and is always willing to listen and learn which is half the battle. He’s also got a lot of ability so why not?”