Frank Lampard has hinted that Ashley Cole will not make his first start for Derby County against Albion in the FA Cup.
Boss Lampard recently signed his former team-mate and 38-year-old ex-England left-back from LA Galaxy.
Cole, a seven-time FA Cup winner in a glittering career, made his debut as a late substitute at home to Hull, but Lampard said: "Tomorrow might be a bit soon for him."
Striker Jack Marriott will be on the bench, not back in the starting line-up, for the fifth round tie at the Amex.
Lampard said: "He's fit - but match fitness has been an issue. It's too soon for him to start - but he will be involved tomorrow."
Lampard has exploited his Stamford Bridge connections to prepare his team.
They stayed down south after Wednesday's 1-1 draw in the Championship at Ipswich and trained today at Chelsea.
Derby have signed ex-Celtic and Hibs defender Efe Ambrose as cover on a short-term deal.
The Nigerian international colleague of Albion's Leon Balogun is ineligible for the clash against the Seagulls.
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