Albion are hopeful of keeping James Wilson for the rest of their promotion challenge after encouragement from Manchester United chief Louis van Gaal.

A knee injury which has ruled out United and England captain Wayne Rooney for six weeks sparked fears of Wilson being recalled to Old Trafford.

The on-loan England under-21 striker can be taken back by United at any time but van Gaal has played down the prospect of that happening.

Wilson has been with Albion since the end of November.

Boss Chris Hughton told The Argus: “When we took him they felt he needed games. He needs to be involved consistency at a meaningful level, which means competitive first team games.

“I have been made aware of the manager’s (van Gaal) quotes that recalling him is not in their thoughts at this moment, so I can only take it at face value and we look forward to having him through to the end of the season.

“If something changes that then that is out of our control.”

Wilson, on target three times in 12 appearances, was ill over Christmas and has missed the last two matches with a minor groin injury.

Hughton said: “It has been a little bit sporadic for James overall but he has proved when he is on the pitch he can score goals. That type of individual you always want available.”