Shane Duffy signed for Albion after a glowing recommendation from the central defender he has replaced.

Skipper Gordon Greer (below) rejoined Blackburn Rovers after the Seagulls released him at the end of last season.

The Argus: Duffy spoke with his Scottish team-mate before sealing his switch from Rovers for a club record fee.

He said: "Gordon was telling me how good the lads are here and what a good club it is. He only had good things to say about it.

"It dragged on. It's been a roller-coaster of a summer but I'm delighted to be here now and I'm looking forward to the challenge.

"You've only got to look at how they played last season, how hard they were to play against, the manager, the facilities, so the only way they are going is up.

"The aim is obviously promotion and from what I've seen so far it's an outstanding club."

Duffy is set to be thrown straight in for his debut, and his first appearance at St James' Park, against Newcastle United tomorrow (5.30).

"I've just been on the bench a couple of times there with Everton," he said. "It's a great stadium and a great game for everyone. I'll be ready. The competition here is brilliant and that will only help me raise my game."