Albion could put trust in their midfield young guns after selling Dale Stephens to Burnley.

The 31-year-old signed a two-year deal at Turf Moor yesterday.

Head coach Graham Potter described him as a fantastic servant to the club and a joy to work with.

But he has no plans to bring in a replacement.

Yves Bissouma has emerged as a midfield powerhouse in recent months and Steven Alzate is off to a good start to the season after groin surgery.

Jayson Molumby was rested for the Carabao Cup tie at Preston on Wednesday.

And Max Sanders, who spent last term on loan at AFC Wimbledon, played at Deepdale and impressed.

Bolton-born Stephens returns to Lancashire after making 223 appearances for the club.

Potter said: “I think when a player is coming to that age and has that opportunity it is hard to stand in their way.

“It was a good opportunity for him, we wish him well, he is welcome back here anytime as he is a top guy.

“But we have got some younger players, some players in the team at the moment and a couple coming through, so we will look at the situation.

“There are no plans to bring anybody in to replace, but he will certainly be missed.”

Albion knocked back six offers from Burnley for Stephens in 2016 and he went on to help the club win promotion.

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Stephens said: “I’m very happy. It’s probably taken a few more years than expected but I’m happy to get it over the line this week and finally become a Burnley player.

“I’ve been away from the North-West for a while. It’s nice to come back to where the family resides as well.

“But most importantly I’m coming back to a Premier League football club that’s done well in recent years in this league and I’m excited for that challenge.”