Ashley Barnes is back in contention for Albion’s final pre-season friendly against Spurs at The Amex on Saturday.
The striker missed the three-game tour of Portugal, as he was about to become a father for the first time.
Barnes featured in a 2-1 friendly win behind closed doors for the development squad against Millwall yesterday, George Barker scoring both goals.
The prolific former Plymouth Argyle marksman will train with the first team today at The Amex as they prepare for Tottenham’s visit marking the official opening of the new stadium.
Boss Gus Poyet said: “Of course it’s nice to have him back, because of how important he was to us last year and because he knows the way we play and train.”
Albion have a clean bill of health for the showpiece occasion against Spurs.
Craig Mackail-Smith (inflamed toe), Kazenga LuaLua (ankle) and Inigo Calderon (knee) were all able to train yesterday.
Poyet’s assistant and ex-Tottenham team-mate Mauricio Taricco, who suffered a shin injury in Portugal, will take part in only Albion’s second training session at The Amex today after a scan revealed no lasting damage.
The Seagulls’ new home will soon be staging international matches.
Managing director Ken Brown revealed: “I’ve met with the FA and representatives from Sussex about hosting an under-18 schoolboy international in April, which we’ll be doing.
“And we are also hoping to stage an under-19 international in November and an under-21 game as well.”
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