Former Albion striker Darren Freeman has backed a plan to help young footballers who fail to make the grade with the Seagulls or other professional clubs.

County League Division One club Peacehaven have reformed their first and second teams so aspiring professionals can gain match practice and experience.

The pioneering idea was devised by ex-Albion player Colin Woffinden who hopes it will improve the standard of football in Sussex.

Woffinden's scheme also has the support of the County FA chairman Ron Pavey and Brighton, Hove and Sussex Sixth Form College, plus Dean Wilkins and Martin Hinshelwood, who run Albion's youth set-up.

Talented players are invited to train and play for Peacehaven without committing to a contract so, if another club comes in for them, they are free to go.

Freeman, 29 next month, says he could have done with a similar scheme himself when he was trying to break into the game.

The Brighton-born striker was snubbed by Albion aged 15, forcing him to play for a succession of non-league clubs before hitting the big time with the likes of Brentford and, eventually, the Seagulls.

He said: "I know how hard it is for kids to break into the game but it is not a closed shop and now anybody has the chance to prove themselves.

"I think it is a great idea and wish people had done something like this when I was younger. It might have made it easier for me to break into the game.

"It is every kid's dream to be a professional footballer and it is hard to take when someone says you are not good enough.

"I received a lot of knock backs but I got my head down and worked harder. Just because one manager doesn't rate you isn't to say another won't think you are good.

"The new set-up is the next best thing to Brighton's centres of excellence. I know Colin intends to provide top-class training and coaching. A lot of people will be looking at the youngsters."

Freeman was forced to quit the Seagulls last term following hernia damage but he has signed a contract with Nationwide Conference club Margate.

He said: "I was lucky to have someone like Gerry Armstrong pushing me on. I think Colin can do the same for the boys' benefit."

Woffinden has enlisted help from Wilkins, Hinshelwood, Alan Sanders, Steve Ford, Dave Sargeant and Dennis Burnett to coach. Peacehaven's first training session is at Piddinghoe Avenue on July 17.