Albion are looking forward to seeing Kaoru Mitoma back in their ranks.

But head coach Roberto De Zerbi said he is disappointed for Japan.

Mitoma will return to England after his national team suffered a 2-1 defeat by Iran in the Asian Cup as Alireza Jahanbakhsh converted a late penalty.

Albion’s attacking options were further boosted when Ansu Fati made a brief return off the bench against Crystal Palace.

Simon Adingra scored to help Ivory Coast beat Mali at AFCON and secure a semi-final berth against DR Congo on Wednesday.

De Zerbi said: “I am really sorry for Japan, for their defeat, because I love Japan and I love the Japanese people.

“But I am very happy we can hug one of the best players for us because Kaoru Mitoma is crucial for us.

“I am looking forward to watching him play for us.”