Tony Pulis wants to send his Albion kids out on loan

Central midfielder Field, aged 19, and winger Leko, 18, have made 23 first team appearances between them.

Both featured in the 2-1 friendly loss at League One side Bristol Rovers on Saturday – Field from the start, and Leko off the bench.

Leko looked bright after coming in and when asked if his showing was a positive to take from the game at the Memorial Ground, Pulis said: "I think [it was] and I was pleased with Sam, he has played another game and done well.

"We're pleased. They need to go out and play at grounds against teams like this, week in and week out for a season."

Both have starred for the club's under-23s over the last couple of years but now Pulis wants them to get regular first team football to enhance their development.

The Welshman pointed towards the likes of David Beckham, from Manchester United to Preston North End, and Jermain Defoe, from West Ham to Bournemouth, as examples of how temporary moves can turn out to be very successful.

"People might say 'why do you want to let them out?' Look at United and how [David] Beckham went to Preston and how the lad came back, even [Jermain] Defoe and people like that," said Pulis.

"They have all played out on loan first before they have really ripened and performed."

"Our kids have been well looked after, spoiled in lots of respects because of the way the club is set up and run - it is just a fantastic organisation.

"They need to get out and learn about the finer arts of professional football."