Albion defender Kerry Mayo has been ruled out of the hectic Christmas programme by manager Peter Taylor.

A scan has revealed Mayo hurt a medial ligament in his right knee in a training ground accident.

Taylor does not expect the leftback to be available again until the New Year.

Mayo was running through for a shot during training last week when he felt pain in the knee.

The initial diagnosis was cartilage trouble or bad bruising, but Taylor said: "It's ligament damage. It is going to be three weeks at the absolute earliest, so he will not be available for the Christmas programme."

Cuckfield-born Mayo was a surprise absentee at the start of the season under former boss Micky Adams after signing a new three-year contract in the summer with the promise of a benefit.

Nathan Jones took his place for the first month, but Mayo fought his way back into the team. Taylor admitted: "It's a bit of a blow. He has been a solid defender, like all of the back four.

"He is also much better in the air than I thought after seeing him play years ago. That is very handy in the second division.

"Nathan Jones and Paul Watson can play at leftback and at a push Matthew Wicks, although I know that is not his favoured position."

An added concern for Taylor is that Watson is a booking away from a ban with Gary Hart, Robbie Pethick and Simon Morgan.

Pethick could now enjoy a run in the side while the postponement of last Friday night's home game against Reading because of a frozen pitch allows Hart more time to recover from a dead leg.

He should be available for this Friday's visit by Chesterfield when the second-placed Seagulls will have a chance to return to the top of the table.

Stoke, the new leaders by virtue of a one better goal difference, entertain Cardiff on Wednesday.

The advancement of Albion's home match against Cardiff by 48 hours to Thursday, January 31 gives scope for the Reading or Tranmere fixtures to be re-arranged for Tuesday February 4, FA Cup replays permitting.

Fans unable to attend the re-arranged Reading match will be entitled to full refunds.