Max Sanders says Aaron Connolly and Steven Alzate's involvement in Albion's first team is a source of encouragement.
The midfielder, 21, agreed a one-year deal Wednesday, and said the opportunities afforded to Connolly and Alzate in the Premier League this season give him extra motivation.
He has also thanked the club’s academy staff for the important role they played in his progress.
He said, “The chances that those two have had this term gives me a massive incentive as they are players I’d come up through the ranks with.
“I’ve played with Tariq Lamptey for England as well. We all know that the head coach will give young players their chance if you’re good enough.
“The coaching staff here have also been brilliant with me, and I want to thank John Morling, Simon Rusk, Shannon Ruth, Vic Bragg and the many others who have played a role in helping me develop ever since I came to the club at eight years old.
“That’s why I want to do everything I can do to impress in pre-season. I was lucky enough to have that time with the first team group here last year and I think I’ll have a better input when pre-season starts in August.
“I haven’t played since March and was preparing to go back to Wimbledon when the season was called off.
“I’ve been keeping fit and doing stuff on my own because I know I need to be in good shape for pre-season. I’m counting down the days for that. You want to be around the group and especially in an environment like ours so I can’t wait.”