Albion head to the North West today – with hopes Kaoru Mitoma will be ready for a big role against the champions.

The Japan winger missed two friendlies with his national team over the past fortnight.

But he was pictured looking in good spirits at Albion’s training session yesterday ahead of tomorrow’s away game with Manchester City (3pm).

Mitoma has signed a long-term deal with the Seagulls.

The Japan winger’s form has fluctuated of late but has still been exhilarating at times.

Roberto De Zerbi is convinced that inconsistency could be partly down to what is happening around him.

He said: “Mitoma, Pascal Gross and Lewis Dunk are maybe the most important players but they are still players and they suffer if other players are not playing well.

“I think he can suffer (from) the performance of the team in general.”

The head coach is expected to give updates today on Gross, who has been to the USA to play for Germany, and Tariq Lamptey, who withdrew from Ghana’s trip to the States.

But Igor Julio appears to be available after limping put of the 2-2 draw against Liverpool ahead of the international break.

James Milner could also come into the reckoning against one of his old clubs.

Rodri, now free of suspension, is widely expected to return to the City midfield as they aim to avoid a third successive league defeat.