Ken Bates was in typically belligerent mood in his programme notes when Albion visited Elland Road last Saturday.

The Football League, FA, FIFA, BBC, MP's, managers and players who abuse referees all came under fire from the Leeds chairman and former Chelsea chief.

Bates is a formidable character and he rarely misses a trick, which is why Albion cannot rely on having Ian Westlake available to them for the rest of the season.

The Leeds midfielder's first month on loan ends after Saturday's home game against Port Vale. Beyond that the Yorkshiremen have the right of instant recall.

Westlake may be out of the plans of manager Gary McAllister at the moment but what if he shines even more than he has done so far for Albion or the Yorkshiremen are hit by injuries or suspensions during the run-in?

Westlake will certainly not be allowed to play if Albion face Leeds in the play-offs, which is a scenario the Seagulls would happily settle for at this stage.

I expect them to finish fifth, sixth, seventh or eighth but, with the race so tight, I just wish they had strengthened the squad in a couple of key areas.

The only cover for Michel Kuipers in goal is the promising but unproven John Sullivan, who has been restricted to a patchy diet of reserve-team action.

Boss Dean Wilkins is also sweating on his front pair, Glenn Murray and talisman Nicky Forster, staying fit. It is worth remembering Albion have nine matches left, not six, if they are going to get back into the Championship.