Albion are facing the biggest test yet of their stretched defensive resources.

The Seagulls will again be missing Adam Webster and, in all probability, Dan Burn as they take on Manchester United.

Webster is still recovering from an ankle ligament problem and his ongoing absence was confirmed earlier today.

However Burn (hamstring) is also likely to absent, having been on the bench for a specific mission versus Newcastle.

Head coach Graham Potter told The Argus: “It was with a view to a late Andy Carroll siege.

“That was only really going to be his role and even that was a push.

“I think we will probably take a step back at the weekend and aim more for Everton.”

SOLSKJAER AND POTTER PRESS CONFERENCES

Albion, who have lost wing-backs Tariq Lamptey and Solly March for the rest of the season, have improvised to great effect in wide defensive areas in wins over Southampton and Newcastle.

They will need to do likewise as they visit a United side blessed with attacking riches.

Potter said: “There is always a time when you lose a player.

“We played Liverpool and won and pretty much lost Solly and Webby after that game.

“Then you have to find a solution, you lose a bit of rhythm and communication as a team while you find the next solution.

“But credit to the players. They have done it well.

“We suffered in terms of results during that period but performances were very good. Credit to them, they have tried to find solutions and we are happy we have found a couple in the last couple of weeks.”

Albion have not given up hope of Webster rejoining them for the game against Everton a week on Monday.

Potter said: “It was ankle ligaments so it is a case of building them up and getting the movement of his ankle better and stronger.

“Once I think he’s got to a stage where he’s happy with that, then he can join the team.

“He has been working hard in terms of his fitness so it is more the ankle and the strength and movement in that.”