Albion striker Paul Kitson has been told he is unlikely to play again until after Christmas.

The former West Ham hitman has been struggling with a persistent back injury since joining the Seagulls in the summer.

Despite surgery, Kitson has now been told he faces at least another month in the treatment room.

He has made just four appearances and has yet to score since becoming Martin Hinshelwood first signing in August.

The news is another injury blow for Steve Coppell who has mounting problems in attack.

Graham Barrett is almost certain to miss tomorrow's trip to Preston with a knee injury while Bobby Zamora has a triple injury worry.

Zamora played through ankle and Achilles injuries in last Saturday's win over Derby when he also picked up a hamstring strain.

Albion's leading scorer, however, is expected to start at Deepdale.