Albion hope Adam Lallana can help them to a welcome home win.

But boss Graham Potter is pledging to be cautious with his former England star.

Lallana was on the bench for the 0-0 draw with Fulham in midweek.

The fact he did not go on to help force a win was puzzling – until Potter explained he was not fit to play.

Albion hoped Lallana would be an important influence around the matchday squad.

But he could have more of a part to play if Albion are chasing the game against Spurs on Sunday.

WELBECK CLOSING ON A RETURN

Potter told The Argus: “We are hopeful. He has had another couple of training sessions.

“He had a nasty illness and it wiped him out a bit.

“We need to be careful with Adam but he’s a little bit closer.”