Steven Thomson wants the chance to join forces with Dean Hammond at the heart of Albion's midfield.

The Seagulls' latest signing will have to wait for the opportunity to play alongside Hammond, who starts a three-match suspension when Huddersfield visit on Saturday.

It may not even happen at all, with Hammond's future in the balance during the January transfer window as his new contract saga drags on.

But assistant manager Dean White revealed in The Argus yesterday that Thomson has been bought to accompany Hammond, not replace him, and that is the way the Falkirk captain would like things to pan out.

Thomson said: "I've heard a lot about him (Hammond). I think Falkirk actually tried to sign him last year, so I am aware of him and I've heard he has got good potential.

"It will be good to link up with him and I know Nicky Forster from playing against him.

"Brighton are just outside the play-offs and my aim is to come down here and help them push for the play-offs and hopefully get back into the Championship."

Albion fans - what do you think about a Hammond-Thomson central midfield partnership?