JAMES Shan has called on his under-23 side to improve on last year's Checkatrade Trophy showing ahead of the trip to Walsall on Tuesday evening (ko 7.45pm).
The clash with the Saddlers is Albion's first of three group games in the competition, with Shrewsbury and Coventry coming up after a trip to the Banks's Stadidum.
"It's a difficult test for us, but we've done our preparation and our scouting as always," said Jimmy.
"They pose a real threat so it'll be a tough game physically and mentally. We've got two players on loan there so we've been keeping a close eye on them and they play a good style of football.
"We had a bit more experience in our squad last year as they were a bit older. We've got a younger squad this time around and it'll be good to see how they get on against seasoned professionals and adults.
"We lost all three matches last season so we need to try and find a way to win games or at least get a draw and take it to penalties.
"The competition was invaluable to us last year in terms of development. We'll be taking it on a game-by-game basis and judging our expectations and aspirations from there."
Tickets for the clash cost £10 for adults and £5 for seniors and juniors.
Come on you Baggies!