Paul Reid has received the birthday present he wanted, a contract with Albion.

The Australian midfielder will sign a one-year deal after the start of pre-season training on Monday.

Reid, 25 next Tuesday, said: "I am very happy. I wanted to get it done.

"It has been worrying me a bit and it is up to me now.

"If I train well and play regularly then maybe I will get a longer term contract."

Reid joined Albion from crisis club Bradford in March on a free transfer for the rest of last season and helped them to promotion via the play-offs.

"I got out of Bradford at a good time and I am signing for a good club," he said. "We have replaced them in Division One.

"I played in the First Division at Bradford, which should stand me in good stead.

"Hopefully Brighton have learnt from going down last time. The main aim is to maintain our status."

Left-sided Welsh midfielder Nathan Jones will also sign a one-year contract on Monday.

Meanwhile, young back-up striker Chris McPhee has been ruled out for the start of the season by a foot injury.

Albion's home game against Stoke City has been rearranged from Saturday December 18 to Friday December 17 (7.45), due to the regulations governing their use of Withdean.

The Seagulls' fixture dates are otherwise unchanged, but the 3pm kick-off for the home match against former landlords Gillingham on Boxing Day is likely to be brought forward.