Teenage Albion striker Chelsea Ferguson has been told her loan move is a “great opportunity”.

The 18-year-old is joining Women’s Championship side Blackburn Rovers for the season.

She signed her first professional contract with the Seagulls this summer.

Albion head coach Melissa Phillips said: “This is a great opportunity for Chelsea to stretch herself in an environment where she can compete for match minutes in a league as competitive as the Championship.

“It is important at this stage of her development that she has the platform to grow within matches and Blackburn provides an excellent setting for her to continue progressing.

"We wish her well and we’ll be monitoring her progress during the season.”

Ferguson first joined the club at under-16 level and went on to become a regular starter with Sinead Hogan-Belcher's under-21s, while also featuring in first team training sessions.