Albion keeper Wayne Henderson is facing a race against time to reclaim the No.1 spot.

A back injury ruled the Republic of Ireland international out of the squad for last night's 1-0 Carling Cup win at home to Boston United.

Henderson is already side-lined from the Seagulls' next away fixture at Bristol City on September 2 as the Republic of Ireland play in Germany on the same day.

Now he faces a battle to recover for Sunday's visit by Crewe after Michel Kuipers celebrated his first appearance since January last night with a competent clean sheet. Manager Mark McGhee revealed: "Wayne Henderson has a sore back and that is why he wasn't on the bench so he has to get fit before Sunday.

"We saw Michel and we have no fears that if Wayne doesn't make it then we have got an able replacement.

"Boston did not threaten us a lot but they had a deflected free kick in the first half from which Michel made an absolutely outstanding save."

A goal 17 minutes from time by Australian rightback Paul Reid after an exchange of passes with Alex Revell eased Albion through to Saturday's second-round draw.

McGhee said: "I thought Paul was outstanding. He showed great energy and good quality and determination to get in behind them.

"He defended well as well, covering the whole of the right-hand side, which showed what a terrific engine he has. He got the goal his performance deserved."

McGhee also praised the performance of veteran centre half Georges Santos on his full debut. He said: "I am very pleased with what he brought to us."