Nick Nurse has insisted Brighton Bears' title disappointment need not spell the end of their plans to tackle Europe.

The Bears coach and owner was widely expected to forget about Europe for next season after his side missed out on top spot in the British League to Sheffield.

Instead he has admitted a lack of financial backing would be the more likely to barrier to his ultimate ambition of international action.

Nurse said: "I would not say Europe is out of the question for next season.

"It would be down to securing a title sponsor or somebody who wants us to go and is willing to back us.

"Right now we cannot do it.

"There are also factors like playing ten more games minimum, staging five midweek home games and having to adjust our roster."

Nurse has also confirmed he would love to see all this season's players back in Brighton next term.

He said: "I really like this team, I think it fits together really well and is appealing to watch.

"They are extremely talented and it's nice to just sit back sometimes and see some special things going on out on court."

Rico Alderson is causing concern ahead of tonight's trip to Birmingham and tomorrow's clash with Scottish Rocks at the Brighton Centre (5pm).

His facial gash is healing but he has a sore ankle and has been laid low by flu during the week.