Albion have pulled off a coup in capturing Falkirk captain Steven Thomson.

That is the message from Thomson's Falkirk team-mate and former Seagull Graham Barrett, as the Scottish Premier League club prepare for life without their inspirational midfielder.

Thomson, 29, has signed a two-and-a-half year contract with the Seagulls and, subject to international clearance, will make his debut at home to Huddersfield on Saturday.

Irishman Barrett, who was on loan to Albion from Arsenal in 2002-03 and has played with Thomson since the start of last season, revealed: "It's definitely a coup for Brighton. He is really in form.

"They are getting a fantastic professional and a really good player. We have been going really well and he has been a massive part of that.

"He is a box-to-box player, he is comfortable on the ball and he has got a bit of everything.

"He is not particularly big (5ft 8in) but he is also very good in the air for his height. He has been playing out of his skin at the moment, so if he brings that down to Brighton I think he will be a massive influence on the team.

"He is great in the dressing room as well, a real leader. He led by example. We haven't been beaten in a long while and he was a big reason for that.

"It's a blow for us but we have got a lot of good players, so hopefully we will be okay."

Thomson flew back to Scotland last night after completing the formalities of his move. He is driving back down with his family today to prepare for his first training session with his new team-mates tomorrow.

Can Thomson make the difference for Albion?