Jason Dodd is poised to bring some "bottle" to Albion's bid for Championship survival.

Dodd is on course to resume training next week after a long-term back problem.

The veteran defender has not featured since the Seagulls drew at Cardiff in November but manager Mark McGhee would love to have his know-how for the relegation run-in.

McGhee said: "If he can get himself fit then, in the last few games when it comes down to the wire, his experience and composure and bottle could be important."

Dodd, 35, has been rocked by two bad injuries since signing for the Seagulls last summer on a free transfer after 17 seasons with Southampton.

He started the first five gamesthen had ankle surgery which kept him out of the side until his return at Cardiff, where back trouble forced him off early on.

Dodd and broken ankle victim Charlie Oatway are still influential figures off the pitch for McGhee.

"They are both important to the spirit and to policing the dressing room, McGhee said.

"They both know they have a role to play and are taking some responsibility for it, even though they aren't in the team."

Joe Gatting might not be in the team for next Wednesday's FA Youth Cup fifth round tie against Blackburn at Ewood Park (7pm). Albion are sweating on the striker recovering from a calf injury.

Goalkeeper Richard Martin has been recalled from a loan spell at Kingstonian as cover for John Sullivan (ankle).