Solly March is in “very good shape” as he recovers from a serious knee injury.

But head coach Fabian Huerzeler says he is not yet close to a playing return.

March has been out of action since last October but has been pictured in training with the Seagulls’ squad.

Huerzeler said the winger is working with good intensity but is not yet involved in every session.

Asked how close March is to a return to action, Huerzeler replied: “I wouldn't say close. If you're injured for that long time, it's a long way back, but he has made a great impression.

“He's going step-by-step. He's now training fully with us but it is not that he can train already in every training session.

“We have to be very patient. We have to go step-by-step, but the positive thing is that he's back on the training pitch.

“He can go at this intensity. He's in a very good shape. We are all impressed how good he is already after his long injury.

“It's now about not putting pressure on him. It's about helping him, giving him a good environment where he can adapt quickly.

“He's very, very professional. You really feel that he wants to come back on the pitch as quick as possible and therefore we give him all the time, but also all the help he needs.”