A former [Albion](https://www.theargus.co.uk/sport/albion/?ref=au) striker who stunned Selhurst Park has returned to action playing fifth-tier football.
Neal Maupay helped Marseille’s reserves win 1-0 at home to Seyssinet in their regional group of National 3 as he remains out of favour with Roberto De Zerbi.
Seagulls fans still fondly recall Maupay’s lob with almost the last kick to secure a 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace in 2021-22 season.
He also put them ahead at the same venue two seasons earlier in another 1-1 draw.
Maupay has since had a torrid spell at Everton before returning to his native France and joining OM.
But he has slipped out of favour and was left out of the senior squad from early this season after saying he did not want a move.
He is likely to be available for less than £5 million in January but has a contract at Marseille valid until June, 2028.
Maupay has not featured in the senior side but marked his first outing in the reserves by guiding a 57th-minute penalty high down the middle as the goalkeeper dived low to his right.
Marseille’s reserve team boss Romain Ferrer said: “The aim was to give him some playing time.
“He showed his professionalism and mobilised the troops.
“We are very happy with his commitment and the spirit he showed.
“He is an example for the boys to follow.”
Meanwhile De Zerbi, who grew up as an ardent Brescia fan, is preparing for a Champions League game at home to their arch rivals Atalanta.
He expects a red hot atmosphere and said: "I already knew the Velodrome from Brighton.
“That's one of the reasons I came here. It has always been a passionate, important place. It's a special stadium. It's intense and demanding.
“Then it's up to the team to get the fans involved.
“It's a privilege for me and the players to play in this stadium."
**semi-professional or amateur**, and many reserve teams of Ligue 1/Ligue 2 clubs also