Solly March has shrugged off transfer interest and set his sights on a first-team comeback for Albion.

The winger comfortably negotiated 45 minutes for the Seagulls’ under-23s against Aston Villa on his return to action at Crawley last night.

He reported no ill-effects after eight months out with a serious knee injury and said he was hopeful of agreeing a new deal with the club soon.

March hopes to step up his comeback when Simon Rusk’s youngsters, who drew 1-1, host Fulham at the Amex on Friday.

The England under-21 international told The Argus: “I felt probably better than I thought I would for the first half-hour. The last 15 I was blowing a bit, to be honest.

“But it’s good to be back out there after a long time.

“The injury was fine. I just needed a bit more oxygen!

“A few more games and I’ll be feeling a lot fitter.”

The Argus revealed recently that Albion were in talks over a new two-year deal for the Hailsham wideman, who caught the eye of Southampton and West Ham last term.

Asked if he was aware of reported interest in his services, March told The Argus: “I’ve seen stuff but I’m injured and I’m looking forward to coming back and playing for Brighton.

“Hopefully I can do that in the next few weeks.

“Talks keep going on. Hopefully we can get something sorted.

“Things take time so hopefully it won’t be much longer.”

Albion led 1-0 when March made way for Henrik Bjordal at half-time.

Jesse Starkey put them in front, following up to head home after a blast from Will Collar bounced back off the bar.

Jordan Lyden levelled for Villa early in the second period and the Seagulls had Jayson Molumby sent off for a second yellow, a shuddering late challenge, just before the end.

March’s contribution was enthusiastically greeted by the faithful at the Checkatrade Stadium.

He played wide on the left and twice eased away from marker Tom Leggett, a former Wales under-18 international signed from Southampton, to deliver crosses.

March was also penalised after sliding into a challenge.

He said: “I think I needed the tackle to get myself going and know the knee feels good.

“There is a game on Friday and hopefully I could play longer than an hour in that one.

“Then hopefully after the international break I can be available for selection and pushing for a (first-team) place.

“This game been the one we have penned in for a while.

“I could probably have got through another 15 minutes or so but it wasn’t worth taking risks.”