Simon Rusk has called for cool heads over Albion's emerging young talent.

The under-23s boss saw several of his squad make senior debuts against Aston Villa in the Carabao Cup last week.

Some earned glowing reviews, despite a 3-1 defeat to experienced opponents.

Rusk was delighted to see them get their chance.

But he told The Argus: “I wouldn’t be one to get too carried away.

“I wouldn’t want to talk about anybody individually.

“It was a big ask, I think anyone can see that.

“But listen, it’s positive, the fact Aston Villa put the team out they did and we were well in the game.

“The young boys were hanging in there and probably the third goal took the wind out of us a bit.

“But it was a great experience and one the lads can only grow from.”

Some of those who played against Villa will feature as Albion send an under-21 side to League One strugglers Southend United in the Leasings.com Trophy tonight (7.45pm).