Sam Baldock is set for an early return to training with Albion in pre-season.

The former Bristol City striker has been sidelined since suffering cruciate knee ligament damage against Derby at the Amex in March.

Boss Chris Hughton told The Argus: "The good thing for us is that Sam has had a good summer as regards his recovery.

"He will be almost up to speed come the first day of pre-season. We will probably have to take him just that little bit slower for the first week but he is ready and fine, which is a real plus for us in that striking department."

Andrew Crofts (knee) and Solly March (fibula) are also on course for pre-season training, as revealed previously by The Argus.

Crofts, who sustained cruciate knee ligament damage for the second time in ten months at Watford last October, faces a final check-up following Albion's training camp in the French Alps early next month.

The players report back to the training complex at Lancing tomorrow for pre-season tests.