Pervis Estupinan has been backed to return to the highs of last season.

The Ecuador left-back has slipped out of the first XI in recent weeks, despite an explosive initial return after an absence enforced by injuries.

Roberto De Zerbi believes that lay-off affected the dynamic nature of his game. The Albion head coach said: “Pervis didn’t play for three months after the Villa game.

“He suffered an injury. After, he played five or ten minutes in Amsterdam and he suffered another big injury.

“He lost the best of his physical condition and it is tough for him because, with his physical characteristics, he needs to play and not miss games.

“I am confident he can come back the same player we saw last season.”