It may seem difficult to believe for younger fans but Albion and Bristol City once clashed in what is now called the Premiership.

It came in the 1979-80 season, the first of four for Albion in the old First Division.

Bristol City, with financial problems looming, were relegated that season but still took a win and a draw from their two games against the Seagulls.

At The Goldstone in the April, Bristol City won 1-0 while the New Year's Day clash between the sides at Ashton Gate ended 2-2, with Albion's goals coming from Ray Clarke, a £175,000 signing from Bruges, and an own goal.

The City side that season included the likes of Joe Royle, who was sacked as Manchester City manager this week, Kevin Mabbutt, the older brother of former Spurs favourite Gary, plus Tom Ritchie, Jimmy Mann and Tony Fitzpatrick.

Albion, meanwhile, boasted the likes of Mark Lawrenson, Brian Horton and Steve Foster in their squad.

Meetings between the clubs since then have been quite frequent and a number of players have played for both clubs, including the likes of Ian Baird, Terry Connor, Russel Bromage, Russell Osman and George Parris.

Another name who did not make the grade at Ashton Gate was Chris Ramsey. After a spell as an apprentice there, he was released to join Albion and went on to play in the 1983 FA Cup Final at Wembley.

Ramsey was injured in the first game against Manchester United and was replaced by Foster for the replay with Steve Gatting switching to an unaccustomed right-back role.

The full-back is now an admired coach, having worked with the Football Association in recent years before a brief stint as Luton Town assistant-manager last season which lasted just three months.