Albion have drafted in goalkeeper Ben Roberts from Charlton as cover for the injured Michel Kuipers.

Roberts is joining the Seagulls on a month's loan and goes straight into the side against leaders Portsmouth at Withdean tomorrow.

Kuipers tore the kicking muscle in his right thigh in Tuesday's FA Cup exit at Norwich.

The big Dutchman will be out of action for six to eight weeks, so Roberts' stay is likely to be extended if he does well.

Boss Steve Coppell said: "He is one of three goalkeepers at Charlton and at the moment nearly all the Premiership clubs are very protective about their goalkeepers.

"I have seen him play a number of times, although I certainly haven't seen him play recently. I spoke with Mervyn Day (Charlton coach) and he says Ben is in good form.

"It's a little bit of a chance and it will certainly be a testing start for him, but he is looking forward to the challenge."

Roberts, 27, made an FA Cup final appearance against Chelsea during eight seasons with Middlesbrough.

The former England under-21 international had a loan spell with Reading last season.

The last of his six appearances for them was in a 3-1 defeat against Albion at Withdean 11 months ago.

Meanwhile, on-loan Arsenal striker Graham Barrett will think about a permanent move to Preston over the weekend after talks yesterday with their manager Craig Brown.

He was set to train with Albion today and is available to face Portsmouth.