Albion are livid over a club versus country clash which has robbed Joel Lynch of the chance to rub shoulders for England with Arsenal wonder kid Theo Walcott.

Lynch and Walcott both received first-time call-ups to the England under-19s squad for a friendly against Slovakia at Northampton FC on February 28.

Lynch has been released from the squad as he is needed for Albion's FA Youth Cup quarter-final against Newcastle at St James' Park the following night.

The Seagulls are seething over Newcastle's part in the fixture clash and were hoping for more understanding from the FA.

The Youth Cup quarter-finals are meant to be played by February 18 but Newcastle's availability has been affected by their involvement in a youth tournament abroad.

They cheekily suggested to Albion last night or today as possible quarter-final dates prior to the Seagulls' fifth round triumph at Blackburn on Wednesday evening.

Martin Hinshelwood, Albion's director of football, said: "Joel has been punished for the success we are having on the pitch. I am disappointed that has not been taken into consideration.

"We feel for him. He has worked hard and earned the right to be in the England squad.

"We are bitterly disappointed for him but it's such a big game for our boys."