Albion have landed a "real bargain" buy in Dale Stephens.

Their playing style and The Amex will suit Stephens down to the ground.

That is the verdict of former Albion goalkeeper John Sullivan, who knows all about the Seagulls' January midfield capture from their time together at Charlton.

Albion signed Stephens from Charlton the day before the January transfer window closed. The fee was understood to be £500,000, rising to a potential £700,000 with add-ons.

Sullivan believes that is a steal. He told The Argus: "I had no idea what the price was but if that's the price I'm telling everyone now that Brighton have got themselves a real bargain, because for me he is definitely worth more than that.

"At Charlton at the moment, with the new owner, there seems to be a few players leaving who when I was there were the core of the team.

"Charlton seem to be going in a different direction and Brighton have reaped the benefits by signing Dale."

Stephens made his Albion debut in Sunday's disappointing 2-0 defeat by Watford at Vicarage Road.

Travelling supporters only caught glimpses of what he is all about but they may learn more at The Amex tomorrow.

The mobile and energetic 24-year-old makes his home debut against Doncaster Rovers - 11 days after ending up on the losing side against them in his final appearance for Charlton.

Stephens has a quick opportunity to avenge that 3-0 defeat for his former club at the Keepmoat Stadium, on a playing surface which Sullivan thinks will help him display his talents.

"During my time at Charlton he was definitely one of the best players," Sullivan said. "He is a midfielder who likes to get on the ball and his range of passing is excellent, so the way Brighton play will suit him.

"The pitch at The Valley is not in a great state, so when he plays at The Amex I think he is going to do very well for the club."