Fabian Huerzeeler says Albion missed Jan Paul van Hecke – as he prepares to bring him back at Newcastle.

The Holland international has trained this week after a groin problem and looks set to face Toon at St James’ Park tomorrow (3pm).

Huerzeler said he was happy with the efforts of Adam Webster, who is now injured himself, and Igor in van Hecke’s absence.

But his comments underlined van Hecke’s growing influence and importance in the Albion ranks.

The head coach said: “When some players get injured you really notice how bad you miss them.

“That was the case with Jan Paul van Hecke. He is a personality and a communicator.

“He always wants to win every game and training session. We missed that. On top of that, he has individual quality that makes him a Dutch national player and that is a quality we need in our squad.

“But I was also happy with Adam and Igor and how they replaced him.

“It’s good to have him and we are really happy that he will be an option.”

Webster went off early in the 3-2 win over Tottenham and faces weeks rather than months on the sidelines.

Huerzeler said: “He has a muscle injury that we have to go week for week but I am quite happy that it is not that bad an injury that he will be out for months.

“It is just an issue for weeks.”