Graham Potter has revealed “top pro” Joel Veltman was unlucky to lose his Albion starting place.

The Holland international hopes for a belated first ever crack at Liverpool today as Albion look to cope without suspended Tariq Lamptey.

Veltman is among the contenders to replace him having played as substitute at right-back late in the win at Aston Villa.

He dropped out of the starting XI at Villa due to Lewis Dunk’s return from a ban but could be back out there at kick-off against the Premier League champions today (12.30pm, BT Sport).

Head coach Potter said: “He was a little bit unlucky not to start against Aston Villa.

“That was purely because he didn’t train with us until Friday after the international break.

“We took the decision to give him a break from the start.

“But, when he came on, he did well and helped us to get the win.

“I’m absolutely delighted with Joel, how he is as a person, how he is as a character.

“An important member of the team.”

Veltman was part of the Ajax team who were seconds from a Champions League final against Liverpool two seasons ago.

A last-gasp Lucas Moura goal meant Tottenham played Jurgen Klopp’s men in Madrid instead but Veltman hopes to face the Reds today.

Albion could change their shape in Lamprey’s absence.

But that is not a certainty and Veltman started at right wing-back in the pre-season friendly against Chelsea.

READ MORE: Why an Albion fixture change could mean they face Ings after all

Either way, Potter is happy to be able to call on him, even if it is off the bench.

The Seagulls boss said: “He is a top professional, great character great person, very calm. Does his best every day.

“He conducts himself impeccably. He came to us as the opposite of us really, after a long break.

“I think they stopped playing in Holland in March.

“He has been patient and when he has played, he has played well.”