John Gregory wants to be Albion’s new manager.

The former Aston Villa, Derby and QPR boss has been out of the game for two years.

But the former Seagulls midfielder would jump at the chance of a return following the sacking of Russell Slade on Sunday.

A source close to the ex-England midfielder said: “John still feels he has got a lot more to offer and would really be excited by the challenge of managing Brighton. He’s missed the training ground big-time.

“His two years out have given him a chance to take a breather so he can come back a better manager. He believes you get better and better as you get older, that you never stop learning. He’s as hungry as ever.”

Gregory, 55, has also managed Portsmouth, Plymouth and Wycombe. He has been working as a pundit.