Albion's out-of-contract defender Colin Hawkins is considering a return to Irish football to secure his future.

Hawkins has been invited back for pre-season training by Seagulls boss Gus Poyet as he continues his recovery from a long-term Achilles injury, which has ruled him out since the Uruguayan took charge.

The 32-year-old former Shelbourne, Bohemians and St Patrick’s Athletic centre half is appreciative of the offer but is seeking a more definite playing arrangement while also studying for the UEFA B coaching licence.

Hawkins said: “I had a good chat with the manager and he was top notch with me. I couldn’t have asked for any more.

“I only joined in for the last two or three days of training. He said I can come back with the rest of the lads on June 28, then be assessed until the end of July when he will look at the situation again.

“I’ve got two young kids and there is not much security in that, so in the meantime I am looking here and in Ireland to see if there is something more permanent.

“They are in the middle of their season in Ireland at the moment, which would be perfect for me.

“I would love to stay here and earn a new contract but a lot of new players are going to be coming into the club and I have got to be realistic.”