Albion boss Chris Hughton praised a "captain's performance" from Sam Baldock against Colchester, which included the vital breakthrough.

Baldock was named skipper as Hughton made 11 changes for tonight's League Cup tie at the Amex.

The former Bristol City's striker's sweet 64th minute finish ended the stalemate and further goals by Jamie Murphy (2) and Elvis Manu completed a 4-0 win against the League Two club.

Hughton said of Baldock: "I thought he worked very hard. It was a real captain's performance.

"He enjoyed being captain and his goal really changed the outcome. At that stage we were playing well enough that I couldn't see Colchester coming back from that."

 

Hughton gave debuts to young full-backs Rob Hunt and Sam Adekugbe, as well as centre-half Ben White, in a defence which also include Rohan Ince dropping back from midfield.

Hughton said: "Because of the spaces and the amount of ball that we had the full-backs could break forward and both of them did.

"Ben was solid and I'm pleased for Incey as well. It's not his position, although he has played there. It sounds strange but he was the elder statesman of the back four. He used his experience."

New midfield signing Ollie Norwood was booked on an otherwise accomplished debut.

"He showed really good phases of his game," said Hughton. "He's good on the ball, with a lovely eye for a pass."

Norwood was partnered by Danny Holla, with Dale Stephens reduced to spectating by a knock in training.

Stephens could be back in contention for Nottingham Forest's visit on Friday night. Hughton said: "If he doesn't train tomorrow I'm quite sure he will on Thursday."