Albion players have been told to speak up if they are worried about returning to action.

Paul Barber has revealed all squad members have been on board for stage one of training this week.

That involves small groups doing socially distanced fitness work under various tight controls which apply from the moment they arrive at the training complex in Lancing.

Albion were not among the three clubs who recorded positive results in Premier League tests for coronavirus as part of Project Restart.

But they can understand health concerns expressed by Watford skipper Troy Deeney and Chelsea midfielder N’Golo Kante.

Barber said: “I can totally appreciate their positions. They have every right to express their concerns.

“It’s very important we bring players along with us every step of the way.

“It means consulting with them in detail, giving them time to process whatever it is we are telling them, giving them time to ask questions, seek advice, and talk to the PFA.

“And then giving them time to come back and ask any questions of us as their employers.

“We want players to have the freedom to speak as they feel they need to, and totally freely.

“You will have heard Glenn Murray speaking throughout this about his concerns, and some of those will be personal and some will be on behalf the group.

“I can’t speak for Watford’s policy or Troy or N’Golo’s positions but, in terms of our players, then they should express their concerns freely and openly.”