Graham Potter has revealed why influential Adam Lallana only played an hour against West Brom.

The midfielder played a big part in his side’s bright first-half display, including the move which brought an own goal.

He was replaced by Pascal Gross 15 minutes into the second half.

Lallana has featured in all six Premier League fixtures so far and this was the first time he had made two successive starts.

Asked whether Lallana could have stayed on for longer, head coach Potter said: “Of course after the event you can say that.

“We are at a stage with Adam where we are trying to build his minutes up and only work towards a certain amount of time for him.

“Of course, I think you are going to miss somebody like Adam.

“I think he was influencing the game well.

“That’s just where we are with him at the moment.”

Albion’s three changes did not help them regain control of the contest.

Alexis Mac Allister’s entry in place of Solly March was part of a change in formation.

Steven Alzate took over from Leandro Trossard seemingly in an attempt to improve ball retention.

Potter said of the changes: “When you look at it in the cold light of day, they didn’t have the effect we would maybe have liked.

“I don’t think it’s down to the individuals themselves.

“It’s more the fact we could get a good enough hold of the game.

“With Adam it was a pre-conceived idea really to only play 60 minutes because we are aware of where we are with him.

“That’s one of those things that we can reflect on and see if we could have pushed that.

“Obviously it’s a straight swap with Pascal and it gives us another set play deliverer.

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“Steven Alzate late and Alexis Mac Allister for Solly to give us back four and an extra midfield player.

“Sometimes they work for you, sometimes they don’t.”