Brighton & Hove Albion vs Blackburn Rovers preview - Al Habsi set for Seagulls start

Ali Al Habsi is available to start in goal while Greg Halford could make his full debut when Brighton entertain Blackburn.

Al Habsi dropped out of the squad which faced Wigan on Tuesday night as he is on loan from Latics, and as regular goalkeeper David Stockdale is out with a broken finger, youngster Christian Walton was handed his league debut as the Seagulls got back to winning ways with a 1-0 victory.

With Aaron Hughes sidelined by an ankle injury, boss Sami Hyypia could turn to Nottingham Forest loanee Halford at centre-back if he decides to leave out one of Gordon Greer or Lewis Dunk, both of whom are one caution away from a ban.

Full-back Bruno (groin) remains a doubt while midfielders Solly March (back), Dale Stephens (ankle) and Andrew Crofts (knee) are long-term absentees.

In-form Ben Marshall will be fit to feature for Blackburn.

The 23-year-old was the victim of a robust challenge from Millwall's Andy Wilkinson in midweek, which earned the Lions loanee a red card, but has reported no adverse effects.

Fellow midfielder Lee Williamson will be given a late fitness test on his troublesome groin problem after missing the 2-2 draw with Millwall.

Boss Gary Bowyer is targeting returns for full-back Tommy Spurr (groin), striker Chris Brown (knee), midfielder Jason Lowe (foot) and winger Josh King (back) after the international break.