Albion are on the verge of stretching Darius Henderson's loan move from Reading.

The centre forward's month expires after Saturday's visit to Plymouth, but Reading manager Alan Pardew has given the Seagulls provisional authorisation to keep him for longer.

Boss Steve Coppell revealed: "I have spoken with Alan Pardew and as long as they don't sell somebody they are quite happy to extend, so it shouldn't be a major problem."

Henderson has forged a promising partnership with Leon Knight which has produced five goals in four League games, plus an assist. Henderson's shot was diverted into his own net by Chris Coyne in Monday's 2-0 win over Luton.

The 21-year-old Yorkshireman will be seeking his first goal from open play at Plymouth after scoring a penalty in the opening day victory at Oldham.

Reading refused Henderson permission to play in the Carling Cup win at Bristol Rovers earlier this month, so he will not be eligible for Albion's second round tie away to Premiership strugglers Middlesbrough on September 24.

Guy Butters is waiting to discover whether he will be in the starting line-up for Saturday's trip to Home Park after an impressive first appearance for ten months by the centre half for the injury-hit Seagulls against Luton.

"It was unfortunate my chance came through injuries and it was hard, because I haven't played for a while, but it was nice to get a game," Butters said.

"I just wanted to get a good performance under my belt. I didn't know I was playing until I came into the ground on the day, so I didn't really have time to think about it.

"I don't know what the situation is with injuries. I assume when every one is fit again I'll be back as a reserve, but that has happened to me before at other clubs so it isn't a problem.

"I don't know how long Danny (Cullip) and Watto (Paul Watson) are going to be out for and it is down to the manager who he plays. If I do play I will continue to try and do my best."

Coppell's selection headache is compounded by the beginning of a three-match ban for Nathan Jones.

The left-sided Welshman, suspended for his red card in the Carling Cup win at Bristol Rovers, has started all five matches so far. Jones' absence could bring into contention John Piercy or youngster Dan Harding, depending on the availability of Cullip, Watson and Simon Rodger (groin).

The match is all-ticket for Albion fans, based on one per away scheme member, and they must be purchased by 4pm tomorrow.