Albion manager Sami Hyypia has quit.

The Finn has fallen on his sword with the Seagulls in the Championship relegation zone after one win in 18 games.

The timing of Hyypia's decision caught the club by surprise.

Hyypia attended the Young Seagulls Christmas party at the Amex yesterday and was at the training complex in Lancing this morning.

No reason has been given by Hyypia for his resignation but the timing coincides with Albion returning to the Amex for their next fixture against Reading on Boxing Day.

Hyypia came under heavy fire from fans during Albion's last home game against Millwall ten days ago.

The Seagulls drew 1-1 with ten men for most of the second half at Wolves on Saturday to remain in the relegation zone, four points adrift of safety.