Former Albion manager Micky Adams today pinpointed the Withdean factor as the key to First Division survival.

The Leicester chief predicts the remaining matches at home will be critical to the Seagulls' chances of beating the drop.

Albion have five games left at Withdean, beginning today against Adams' old club Nottingham Forest.

They plundered 59 points out of 69 at their temporary home under his leadership when they won the Third Division.

Now Steve Coppell's side are showing signs of recapturing that impregnable form as the four-way fight to avoid relegation hots up. Last Saturday's success against Rotherham rounded off a hat-trick of home victories.

Adams told The Argus: "I think all four of the teams at the bottom have got a hard job with the fixtures they have left. Home form will be crucial.

"Over the past month Albion's home results have been better than the others. Sheffield Wednesday are drawing a lot of games, but you are better off winning one and losing one.

"Withdean has unusual surroundings for First Division teams. That is going to work in Albion's favour."

Adams believes the Seagulls have three other elements on their side: the ability to bounce back from a bad result, Bobby Zamora's goals and the renowned mental strength of the players, most of whom he signed.

But he admits he has no idea whether they will steer clear of an instant return to the Second Division.

"I haven't got a clue who will come out on top of the lot at the bottom," he said. "How they react after defeat is going to be important and fans not over-reacting to a defeat will play a big part as well.

"It's going to be hardest for Grimsby because they haven't got a big squad and the others have all got a goalscorer: Zamora, Greenacre at Stoke and possibly Bradbury for Wednesday. That is going to win them games.

"Stoke and Sheffield Wednesday have a bit of leeway in the transfer market. Hand on my heart I hope Brighton stay up, but I am not saying that with any great confidence. They have done brilliantly to give themselves a chance.

"Once you are in the bottom four it becomes a mind game to a great degree. I know the Brighton boys are mentally strong and that is going to help them. They will give it their best shot."