I was thrilled to bits for Martin Hinshelwood when he was named Albion manager last month but I can't help worrying my old pal has a massive job ahead of him.

Brighton's rise from the Third Division to the First has been meteoric to say the least and I fear they are not ready for the challenge of Division One football.

Most football observers, myself included, were surprised to see the team win the league last season.

Back to back titles have swept Albion to within tantalising sight of the Premiership and everyone is expecting Martin to continue the success of Peter Taylor and Micky Adams despite the step-up in standard.

I have known Martin for 16 years because he was on the coaching staff when I joined the club in 1986 from Chesterfield and I was understandably delighted for him when I heard the news.

Martin was assistant to Barry Lloyd when I was there and as an ex-player he knows the game well.

I think it's a good appointment because he knows the players extremely well and has been associated with the club for years. The club need some continuity considering the new challenge facing them this season.

However, perhaps his most vital skill is that he is very personable and is good at dealing with people and most importantly players.

To those outside the game this is a very underrated attributed.

Footballers have to want to play not only for the club and themselves but also the manager. He has to be able to bring the best out of the players and I believe Martin will do that.

Make no mistake, I am not writing the team off, but if we are realistic, everyone will have to continue to improve their performance levels if the club are to avoid relegation.

I think a good season for the club will be to finish fifth or sixth from bottom, anything better than that will be a huge bonus.

I don't recommend the players themselves should set their sights so low but I am cautioning patience among the fans.

Let's not expect miracles from the lads. The players and the fans are going to have to be prepared for defeats which both are unaccustomed to following the success of the last two seasons.

August 10, 2002