Ruth delighted as under-21s get first-team exposure

Shannon Ruth was delighted that three more of his under-21 regulars got first-team exposure on Sunday.

Jack Hinshelwood, who has been a regular in Premier League squads this season and made his full debut against Aston Villa in September, was joined by Benicio Baker-Boaitey, and Mark O'Mahony in the squad for the 1-1 draw against Sheffield United.

And while none of the youngsters came on in the 1-1 draw, Ruth was proud of the trio. "I am delighted for them. That's why we have our under-21s, why our under-21 staff work so hard - it's to try and help the players achieve their dreams," he said.

"For those boys to be on the bench in the Premier League is a really big achievement. They will want to keep pushing to try and get on the pitch but I am very proud of the three lads who are representing the academy."

In their absence, Albion beat Hull City 5-0 in the Premier League Cup on Sunday and tonight the under-21s turn their attention to the Sussex Senior Cup when they travel to Steyning Town, kick off 7.30pm.

Steyning are currently third in the premier division of the Southern Counties Combination League, and have only lost one league game this season. They play on a 3G pitch at the Birchwood Ground.

Advanced tickets can be purchased here.