Albion chairman Dick Knight has urged fans to remain patient as he continues the search for a new manager.

Knight is on holiday in Spain but says there will be no let-up in the hunt for Peter Taylor's successor and new players.

Taylor resigned at the end of April after steering Albion to the Second Division title.

Knight has interviewed a number of contenders, including former Brentford boss Steve Coppell, ex-Wimbledon chief Terry Burton and the Seagulls' director of youth Martin Hinshelwood.

"I'm casting the net wide for our new manager, because the job is so important," Knight said.

"I've seen several good candidates, some of whom are still in the frame, but I'm also following up other interesting possibilities because I'm determined to get the right man.

"Albion fans can be assured that although I'm on holiday this work goes on.

"We also need some squad strengthening and our close season preparations must continue prior to the new manager being appointed.

"I'm working with Bob Booker (assistant manager) and Martin Hinshelwood on this and we have a number of irons in the fire in regard to potential new players."

Knight returns on July 2, the day before the Albion players report back for pre-season training.

A number of them are being offered new contracts, as revealed by The Argus shortly after Taylor's departure.

"I am in the process of offering new contracts to a number of our players in reward for their great efforts over the past two seasons," Knight confirmed.

"These players deserve their chance in Division One and they will get it, because they will wear the Albion shirt with pride and are absolutely determined to succeed and prove the doubters wrong."

Albion's home match against Sheffield United has been put back 24 hours to Sunday, October 20 because one of the park and ride car parks used by fans for Withdean is not available on the Saturday.