Albion No. 1 Mark Cartwright faces a three week lay-off following a hernia operation.

Michel Kuipers will now enjoy an extended run in goal and the Seagulls have recalled youngster Will Packham from a loan spell at Bognor to cover the big Dutchman.

Kuipers has deputised for former Wrexham keeper Cartwright for the last four matches.

Manager Micky Adams revealed: "Mark was back in full training last week, but he was still feeling some discomfort.

"Originally the doctors and physio Malcolm Stuart thought it was a hernia, but a herniagram showed nothing.

"The problem didn't settle down after an injection, so the surgeon decided on an exploratory operation which showed a small hernia on the right side.

"It was operated on and it will be two to three weeks before Mark has recovered."

Albion have already been hit by an identical injury blow. Darren Freeman is due for a second hernia op this week after double hernia surgery last month.

Adams expects the unchanged Seagulls to bounce back from Saturday's unfortunate 1-0 defeat at leaders Chesterfield in tonight's Withdean sell-out against lowly Plymouth.

"I have told the boys we have been in a battle, but we haven't lost the war," he said.

"We are certainly not going to lose heart and I am sure they will respond positively. That is the type of players I have in the changing room."

Adams has arranged a reserve team friendly against Southend at Roots Hall tomorrow afternoon (2pm).

Meanwhile, Stuart and retired kit man Jock Riddell are to be rewarded for their loyal service with a shared benefit match at the end of the season.