Albion have been told to expect a battle as they look to emerge from the misery of a cruel last-gasp defeat.

The Seagulls are preparing to visit West Brom with fans’ nerves back on edge after the 2-1 reverse to Crystal Palace.

Reaction to defeats by the old rivals from up the M23 over the past decade has generally been defiant.

Potter expects a similar response from his squad – and says there really is no option.

A first ever league win at the Hawthorns – at the 11th attempt – would put pressure on Fulham for their trip to Palace on Sunday.

Potter believes everyone must play their part.

Albion’s head coach said: “This magical player that just produces something out of nothing is not so easy to get, even at the top level.

“We have the players we have and they are doing absolutely their best, of that I’m sure.

“A lot of young players, a lot of players adapting to the level.

“Since the turn of year and, in fairness, all over the season, they consistently have been good.

“Results-wise we haven’t been able to get the most out of our performances.

“We have still got 39 points to play for.

“We have to make sure that we are ready for that fight because that is what is going to be.”

Albion responded to last season’s home defeat by Palace with a battling draw at Wolves and then a win over Arsenal in their next game at the Amex, albeit almost four months later.

The chaotic 3-2 setback at Selhurst Park in 2018-19 was followed by draws with Tottenham and Burnley and a win over Manchester United to secure safety.

A 3-0 defeat back in 2012-13 preceded a run of one defeat in the next seven matches by an injury-hit squad.

Albion’s league record at the Hawthorns is dismal but they have already broken a jinx at nearby Aston Villa this season as well as recording a first ever success at Preston.