July 6: Albion in hunt for new striker

ALBION manager Mark McGhee today stepped up his search for at least one new striker, with Chris Iwelumo's future up in the air.

Iwelumo failed to report for the start of pre-season training yesterday.

The former Stoke target man is thought instead to be in negotiations with two Second Division clubs, despite being offered a two-year contract by the Seagulls.

McGhee said: "I had hoped Chris Iwelumo would be in, but he wasn't.

"I understand he is having talks with Doncaster and Wimbledon, which surprises me a wee bit."

The uncertainty surrounding Iwelumo means McGhee has a shortage of forward options, with Albion's opening fixture at Reading less than five weeks away.

Leon Knight is banned for the first three games and Chris McPhee has fractured a foot bone.

"Chris would have got his chance in pre-season," McGhee said. "Obviously he is not going to get that now until he is fit.

"It leaves me in a situation at the moment where, without Chris Iwelumo having agreed a contract, we have one fit and available striker in Jake Robinson, because Leon will be suspended, so it is absolutely urgent."

The striker crisis could soak up money McGhee might otherwise have been able to use to sign 22-year-old Scotland and Hibernian centre half Gary Caldwell, as revealed in yesterday's late edition of The Argus.

Meanwhile, Paul Brooker today revealed he has chosen Reading ahead of Albion, because he believes they have more chance of finishing in the top six this season.

The Seagulls were interested in re-signing their former winger, but he has rejoined Steve Coppell's Reading on a two-year contract after being given a free transfer by Leicester.

Brooker, who had a loan spell at the Madejski Stadium towards the end of last season, told the Reading Evening Post: "I enjoyed my time here last season and I'm pleased to be back.

"I heard that Brighton were interested, but I feel Reading are more stable in Division One at present.

"Brighton have been a little up and down and I think this season Reading have the better chance of making the play-offs."

Brooker, 27, played 134 League games in four seasons with Albion before a shock move to Leicester last summer.

He failed to make an impact in the Premiership and was awarded a free transfer by Micky Adams, one of the managers he played under for the Seagulls.

Albion are inviting applications for tickets for the home matches against Plymouth on August 10, Coventry four days later and Preston on August 28.