Albion new boy Paddy McCourt is hoping his patience pays off – after turning down the chance to move abroad.

The former Celtic and Barnsley midfielder is likely to be on the bench against Bolton today in the first home game since he signed a one-year deal.

McCourt is convinced the Seagulls’ style will suit him down to the ground.

Which is why he was happy to bide his time and undergo a trial period, despite offers from overseas after he ran out of contract at Oakwell.

The 30-year-old from Derry told The Argus: “I had quite a few options to go abroad and that is something I considered.

“Brighton showed a bit of interest early in the window.

“For one reason or another it didn’t really happen but I was hanging on because I believe it’s a club that will suit my style of football.

“I had a chance to go to America and the Far East, I went out to have a look at a few places.

“But I’ve got a young family and they just weren’t right at this time.”

McCourt was one of four signings in the last eight days and boss Sami Hyypia hopes there are more.

Hyypia said:”We are still hoping for a few new faces to make the squad stronger and then we’ll see.

“We are working hard to do that and then it’s up to us to work on the training pitch so we keep improving our game.”