Wayne Henderson has won the battle to be Albion's No. 1, for the time being.

The Republic of Ireland international has been given the nod over Michel Kuipers for today's League One opener at Rotherham.

Manager Mark McGhee found it almost impossible to split the pair but Henderson's superior distribution eventually held sway.

McGhee confirmed: "Wayne will play. They both came back in tremendous shape, have worked hard and barely put a foot wrong in pre-season.

"The decision came down to the consistency of Wayne's kicking. I cannot separate them as shot-stopper or cross-takers but Wayne is a better kicker. It's up to him now to keep his place."

Kuipers is back in favour at Albion after apologising earlier in the summer for the way he reacted to being dropped last season.

McGhee has been encouraged by the Dutchman's response towards his latest omission.

"Michel was very disappointed but mature in his attitude towards it," he said. "I've told Michel I need him to stay upbeat.

"I don't expect him to be happy but I've asked him to communicate with me and then we will deal with the situation as it develops."

New signings Alex Revell, Tony Stokes and Keith Lowe are in the squad which travelled north yesterday. Two of them are expected to make the starting line-up while Dean Cox is also in contention for his full debut.

Out-of-favour Maheta Molango has joined Oldham on a month's loan and could make his debut today at Tranmere. McGhee said: "We don't see any prospect of Maheta featuring for us."