CHRIS HUGHTON has eased fans’ fears over Dale Stephens after he missed Albion’s latest friendly.

But fringe midfielder Jake Forster-Caskey looks set for the exit – on loan to Rotherham.

A season-long deal is likely to be wrapped up with the Millers this morning.

Hughton admitted there were few excuses for a below-par performance in last night’s 3-0 defeat to Championship rivals Fulham.

Stephens, target of interest from Burnley, missed the outing at Aldershot due to a kick on the knee.

He will return on Saturday when Albion send sides to both Luton and Stevenage.

Hughton said: “Dale took a whack at Crawley.

“It was probably a challenge he didn’t have to make but he is a tough individual.

“It is nothing serious and we decided he would benefit from resting (last night).”

Hughton sees Forster-Caskey’s imminent move north as a good one.

He said: “Jake is a young and ambitious players and has found it difficult to get the games he wants.

“He’s a good lad, a good trainer for us and had a successful loan spell at MK Dons for two periods last season.

“It is a really good opportunity for him.”

The Albion boss expects his side to learn from a conclusive defeat to the lively Cottagers.

He said: “I thought we were beaten by the better team over 90 minutes.

“We played some of the young lads but we don’t want to look for any excuses.

“I thought they were better than us – certainly more clinical.”