Gary Dicker is returning to Albion – as an over-age player in the under-23s.

The 34-year-old will work as boss Andrew Crofts’ on-field general.

It is an on-the-job mentoring-type role Crofts himself has filled in recent seasons.

Crofts was part of the Albion team which dominated League One in 2010-11 and went on to establish themselves in the Championship at the Amex.

He was playng in the Scottish top flight with Kilmarnock until the end of last season.

But he has always kept a base just outside Brighton.

He said: "I'm absolutely delighted to have been given this opportunity, which I think is perfect for me. I was honoured to be asked.

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"I believe I can be a good influence with the young players on the pitch by passing on my experience and being an important part of the team while learning more about coaching from the great coaches there are at the club.

"The club has made unbelievable progress, with so many great young players coming through, and I'm looking forward to helping that continue."