STEVE SIDWELL says Albion have the mental strength for the Premier League – after signing up for next season.

The midfielder has agreed a one-year deal and set his sights on a return to the top flight.

Seagulls fans were last night renewing calls for goalkeeper David Stockdale to follow suit after he was one of the first to respond to a tweet linking to the news at theargus.co.uk.

Sidwell was always expected to accept terms for the new campaign and he yesterday made it official.

The former Fulham and Reading midfielder believes the near miss of 2015-16, when Albion were pipped by Middlesbrough on goal difference, has stood them in good stead.

He said: “The season before last was a blessing in disguise. We were mentally stronger this year.

“It’s a nice feeling to be back in the Premier League. It’s going to be tough but it’s a challenge that we should all be looking forward to.”

Sidwell said of his decision to stay: “It was a no-brainer.

“After dotting the I’s and crossing the T’s, it was all done fairly quickly.

“I’ve been on holiday with the kids, so that obviously took priority, but I’m glad it’s all done and dusted now.”

Sidwell’s midfield sidekick Beram Kayal has put himself in the frame for a World Cup start with Israel on Sunday.

Kayal impressed as a second-half substitute in a friendly against Moldova on Tuesday and is pushing Almog Cohen to play against Austria in a qualifier.