Roberto De Zerbi is ready to raise the bar for his Japan star.

Albion are sixth in the Premier League ahead of their trip to Crystal Palace on Saturday thanks to a late winner from Koaru Mitoma at home to Bournemouth.

De Zerbi accepts hopes are growing of a European place for the Seagulls.

And he is willing to up the stakes for Mitoma, whose seven goals in his last 11 games is just one short of his tally for the whole of last season with Royale Union St-Gilloise.

The head coach had challenged him to reach ten for the campaign.

But he said: “How many goals has he now – seven?

“Now I have to raise the target of goals.

“But I think we need the goals of Mitoma, of (Solly) March.

“Of (Deniz) Undav and (Danny) Welbeck. Both played a great game (on Saturday) without a goal but I liked them.”

De Zerbi revealed he is in regular communication with Mitoma during games.

He added: “He is always near me and, for me, it is very important to give them instruction.

“It’s easier for me because I’m not playing.”

De Zerbi will update on Evan Ferguson’s fitness later this week although it is understood he was close to making the Bournemouth game.

Moises Caicedo and Alexis Mac Allister are expected to return to the XI at Palace as competition for places hots up but it is unclear whether Adam Lallana or Levi Colwill will be fit.