Albion were last night backed to make a winning start to the campaign – even if there are no eve of season signings.

But former skipper Adam Virgo admits new faces are required for the long haul of a Championship winter.

The Seagulls’ move for Adam Clayton last night looked to be over, despite an unexpected hold-up in the Huddersfield midfielder’s switch to Middlesbrough.

Fans are still waiting for progress on other targets ahead of Sheffield Wednesday’s visit to the Amex on Saturday.

But Virgo reckons they might have enough for the opener, despite a subdued performance in last week’s friendly against Southampton.

Virgo said: “I think if Sami (Hyypia) has to start with the squad he has now, it will still be fine for a game or two.

“If he lost a player to injury or suspension, it could then be a problem.

“I would be slightly worried if this was the squad for the season judging on the game against Southampton. But I don’t think it will be.

“There is still time to go before the transfer window closes.

“We have a great chance to get off to a good start. If we can get four points from two games, against Wednesday and Birmingham, that’s a good start.

“Hopefully we haven’t missed the boat.”

Boro had yet to confirm Clayton’s arrival last night with the delay related to Jacob Butterfield’s possible move from the Riverside to Huddersfield.

In turn, the Terriers’ need for a midfielder appeared to be eased by the arrival of Conor Coady from Liverpool.

Bristol City manager Steve Cotterill and Wolves boss Kenny Jackett have both played down the chance of Albion signing Sam Baldock and Stephen Ward respectively.

Ward is seen as a key addition at left-back but ex-defender Virgo reckons Adam Chicksen, who played against Saints, has potential in the longer term.

Virgo said: “I think Adam is a work in progress and he needs to maybe go out on loan and get a good run of games.

“It’s hard to come in for the odd good game.

“Adam has weakness defensively but he is improving going forward and has a good change of pace.”

Former Albion midfielder David Lopez has signed a two-year deal at Spanish second-tier outfit Lugo.

David was released by the Seagulls at the end of last season and attracted interest from several teams, including Blackpool, before settling on a move to Galicia.