West Bromwich Albion boss Steve Clarke hopes to give his best youngsters a Premier League chance in the final games of the season.

England Under-17s defender Callum Jones travelled with the Baggies squad for Saturday's game at Stoke City.

Clarke said: "It's just experience.

"Young Callum came up with us, he's trained with the first team.

"Every day he trained he was in the group and he handled himself well so it was a chance to give him some experience.

"It's important you give your academy encouragement.

"If you just close the door on them and don't give the chance to train with the first team, or travel with the first team then it can seem a long way for an under-18 player.

"You need to show them the step isn't that big provided they continue to work and apply themselves well when they need to."