David Stockdale has been saluted for his role in Albion’s flying start to the season as he aims for a winning hat-trick against former clubs.

The in-form No.1 has already helped the Seagulls see off ex-employers Fulham and Ipswich in their unbeaten Championship run.

Stockdale, up against Hull today where he had two loan spells three seasons ago as they were promoted to the Premier League, was instrumental in Albion’s victory in their last home game against Blackburn Rovers.

Boss Chris Hughton believes the Yorkshire shot-stopper, under scrutiny last season for some fluctuating performances, has benefited from a combination of a summer fitness regime, the arrival of Ben Roberts as goalkeeping coach and fresh competition from Finland international Niki Maenpaa.

Hughton told The Argus: “He’s come back in very good shape. He’s working very hard.

“We’ve had two good goalkeeping coaches here. I only worked with Antti (Niemi) for a short period of time but bringing Ben Roberts in I think has given Stocko a different voice as well.

“He has started the season well and that breeds a little bit of confidence. We needed him very much in the Blackburn game, where I thought he made two very good saves.

“And the fact we have brought in Niki, does that put more pressure on him? Possibly but that would be the same right through the team at the moment.”

Hull’s visit to the Amex could mark the return to home action from the substitutes’ bench after a 12-year absence of striker legend Bobby Zamora.

He came on towards the end of Albion’s win at Ipswich before the international break.

Zamora scored on his last home appearance for the club, a 4-0 victory over Watford at Withdean in April 2003.