Steve Sidwell has given emerging Albion midfielder Max Sanders some glowing praise.

The Horsham-based youngster missed out on a start in the Carabao Cup tie against Manchester United.

Sanders progressed on loan at AFC Wimbledon last season.

Sidwell told BBC Radio 5 Live listeners he has been impressed by what he has seen.

He said: “In the previous round at Preston, he was probably man of the match.

“Nice, neat and tidy on the ball. He puts his foot in.

“Tries to get forward as well.”

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Sanders went on as sub for Jayson Molumby last night as United celebrated their third goal.

Sidwell said Albion could take heart from their efforts in the tie.

They were pushing for an equaliser until Juan Mata scored his second goal.

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Sidwell said: “They have probed, kept the ball well. It’s just that final third, that’s where games are won.

“They have lacked that little bit of guile, that bit of spark.

“Again, a positive, confident display they can take into Saturday.”