ALBION stalwart Peter Smith is back in first team contention, just days after being transfer listed.

The Seagulls' longest-serving player is in a squad of 15 for tomorrow's testing trip to form side Shrewsbury.

Boss Brian Horton had no hesitation in including Smith, 29, as cover for a depleted defence.

Ross Johnson is suspended, Gary Hobson is still injured and Andy Arnott, who can play at the back as well as midfield, is also banned.

"Smithy is a tremendous club man," said Horton. "I've spoken to him about his quality on the ball, but his attitude and commitment have never been in question."

Inconsistent Albion are bidding for a club record fifth away League victory in a row after back-to back defeats in the FA Cup at Leyton Orient and at home to leaders Halifax.

That would be some achievement, especially as they haven't won at Gay Meadow for 23 years and Shrewsbury haven't lost in the Third Division for ten games.

Added Horton: "Shrewsbury are on a tremendous run. I didn't expect them to be down near the bottom, because they looked a decent side last season, but we need to get back to picking points up.

"I couldn't complain about the performance against Halifax and the players have been very buoyant in training this week."

Paul Armstrong is also back in the squad tomorrow and so too is John Westcott. He returns because Stuart Storer still has a groin problem.

Albion (from) Ormerod; Armstrong, Sturgess, Minton, Bennett, Browne, Thomas, Mayo, Hart, Barker, Culverhouse, Smith, Moraelee, Westcott, Walton.

Shrewsbury (from): Edwards; Seabury, Hanmer, Gayle, Whelan, Tretton, Jobling, Berkley, Kerrigan, Jagielka, Evans, Brown, Craven, Steele.

SHREWS SPOTLIGHT: Page 46

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