Albion will check on Kaoru Mitoma as he returns from a demanding trip on international duty.

The winger played the full game as Japan came from behind to force a hard-earned 1-1 draw with Australia in Saitama yesterday.

The point helps the Samurai Blue towards another World Cup appearance and many observers regarded Mitoma as their best player on the day as Japan dropped their first points in the qualifying stage.

He also played 88 minutes when Japan won 2-0 away to Saudi Arabia on Thursday.

Mitoma has come back from injury in impressive style and has played more minutes than any other Albion player in the Premier League so far this season.

Head coach Fabian Huerzeler said going into the international window: “He had a long injury so he is still trying to get back to his top shape but we will help him and I am sure he will be there soon.”

Mitoma has played 624 Prem minutes this season, which is eight more than Lewis Dunk with Jack Hinshelwood and Danny Welbeck not far behind.

Defender Jan Paul van Hecke missed international duty with Holland but has been pictured training with the Albion squad this week, although it is not clear to what extent he was involved.

Mats Wieffer had valuable playing time, getting 45 minutes as the Dutch lost 1-0 to Germany in Munich.

Huerzeler is expected to give an update on his squad tomorrow morning.

Georginio Rutter and Simon Adingra have also been spotted training with their club.