Paul Reid received a vote of confidence from his manager today in his new role as Albion's stand-in leftback.

Mark McGhee will have no qualms about using the reliable Australian there again at Hull on Saturday.

McGhee continues to scour the market for a recognised leftback to replace Kerry Mayo, who is out until next month with a calf pull.

Reid was an impressive deputy for Mayo in last Saturday's 2-2 draw at home to Crewe but McGhee fears the versatile former Bradford City player may be needed elsewhere next week as the Seagulls brace themselves for a stamina-sapping schedule.

"I was talking to a friend in Australia on Sunday morning," McGhee said. "He's always interested to hear about Reidy and I told him I call him Mister Consistency. For a long time now his performances have been right up there.

"He was excellent against Crewe. I was really pleased with him. I would have no hesitation using him there again if we don't get someone in for Saturday.

"In the first half there were a lot of good performances but he was probably as good as anybody throughout the game.

"My worry is more the fact that we have four games in ten days and we might need Reidy at rightback.

"We have got Adam El-Abd as well but it is going to be a big ask for Jason (Dodd). Everybody is going to have to be used in those games."

McGhee's small squad will be stretched to the limit by a hectic programme.

The Seagulls visit Shrewsbury next Tuesday in the Carling Cup and Preston on Saturday week, then entertain Plymouth 48 hours later.

Alexis Nicolas has put club before country and made himself available for the Hull match by turning down a call-up to the Cyprus under-21 squad for a friendly on Friday night.

The former Chelsea central midfielder is hoping it does not jeopardise his chances of being involved in qualifying games for Cyprus next month which do not clash with Albion fixtures.

Nicolas made his first appearance of the season against Crewe as a second half substitute for new French winger Sebastien Carole.