Seb Pocognoli is convinced he has no future with one Albion.

He is less certain about what lies in store with another.

Left-back Pocognoli makes his fifth Championship start for the Seagulls against Cardiff at the Amex tonight, as he continues to deputise for the injured Gaetan Bong.

The Belgian international joined on loan from West Brom for the season at the end of the summer transfer window.

Pocognoli, out-of-contract with the Baggies at the end of the campaign, does not envisage returning to the Hawthorns to play under Tony Pulis again.

He revealed to The Argus: "They have the power to take up an option in my contract.

"If they decide to give me another year then I will be doing a pre-season with West Brom, unless a club buys me before.

"If not, I'm free at the end of the season and after that I can make a decision for my future and we will see."

Pocognoli made only 16 Premier League appearances in his first two seasons at West Brom after arriving from German side Hannover.

The last time Pulis (below) used him was as a substitute in a victory over Manchester United ten months ago, so Pocognoli's assumption that West Brom will not invoke their option to retain his services is understandable.

The Argus: "I think it would be very difficult," he said. "I left because I was not playing with the staff that are there. I've got nothing bad to say about that, but I cannot imagine going back there to play.

"I know they are trying to find a new left-back, so I cannot imagine I will play there again.

"I still have good memories there, a fantastic relationship with the lads and the people that work there.

"In a way I'm a little bit sad, but I need to play. That's the most important thing."

Pocognoli returned after four matches out with a groin injury to play a prominent part in Friday's win against Sheffield Wednesday, including an inviting cross for Anthony Knockaert's late winner.

He came to England to play in the Premier League but is aware the numbers currently count against him.

"Yes, but the thing is the stats," Pocognoli said. "I've not been playing a lot of games. For sure, if I can play well with Brighton I can expect something.

"That is the only way for me. It's a little bit too early for me to talk about my future. I can talk about West Brom, because it's a clear situation, but if I'm out of contract I don't know.

"I just try to do my best here. I hope the club will go to the Premier League and after that we will see.

"I think Brighton will maybe have the first choice because they know me, what I can and cannot do, and my personality too.

"Me? I know the players, I know what I have here, so we will see at the end of the season - if I do well, if the club are happy, if other clubs are interested. It's a long way until the summer, so we will see."