Shannon Ruth says the different challenges thrown up by the fixture list are inspiring his under-21s.
In recent weeks they have played European opposition in the Premier League International Cup as well as the Sussex Senior Cup and Premier League Cup.
It’s that competition that Albion focus on tonight when victory over Derby County at the American Express Elite Performance Centre (7pm) would seal a place in the knockout stages.
Despite the pause in league action during theWorld Cup break, they have still played six games in five weeks and have extended their unbeaten run against academy sides and non-league teams to an impressive 12 games.
“Not every challenge needs to look the same,” said Ruth. “Whether it’s the Premier League Cup tonight or a Sussex Senior Cup tie in the freezing cold on a difficult pitch, it’s good for our tests to be different.
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“Our players are encouraged to solve problems and get into the habit of treating every game the same, whoever they come up against. It will be no different against Derby as it was against Three Bridges or PSV Eindhoven.
“If the squad can get to grips with the idea of their standards being the best they it will help their consistency and their chance of going far in the game.
“We want to develop our players to be the best version of themselves and games like tonight help us do that. Our varied programme is so valuable.”
Derby will provide Albion with another tough test after the previous encounter in the PL Cup ended in a 1-1 draw when the Rams equalised with the last kick after Billie Clark had put Albion in front.
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“The group is in a really good place.” said Ruth. “An important thing for young players is learning to deal with disappointment and not let it impact you too much.
“Our squad has grown together and they fight so hard for each other. The draw against Derby was frustrating but we still played well and bounced back soon after.
“The players are working so hard to protect and extend our unbeaten run and we are looking forward to the game tonight.”