SHANE DUFFY will put an unwanted lay-off to good use – by settling into life with Albion.

The new signing felt he was “comfortable” on his debut at Newcastle after just one training session.

Now he aims to strike up a rapport with his new club colleagues during a break from international action.

Duffy is suspended for Northern Ireland following his red card for fouling Antoine Griezmann of France in Euro 2016.

He said: “I feel like I have new lease of life here.

“I can be myself again and play like I know I can play.

“I’m looking forward to the next couple of seasons here at least.

“I’ve got two kids and a girlfriend and we’ll be looking for a house and place to stay.

“I’ll find my feet for the next week or two at the training ground and in Brighton itself.”

Duffy’s arrival took the pressure off Uwe Huenemeier to make a demanding return to league action after eight months out with a serious groin injury.

The German, who played an hour in the League Cup win at Oxford last season, travelled and did some running on the pitch before the game.

Connor Goldson is also closing in on a return.