The return of Ben Roberts to Albion as goalkeeping coach has been confirmed by the club.

Roberts, who turns 40 on Monday, starts work immediately after the Seagulls agreed compensation with Championship rivals Charlton to secure his service.

Boss Chris Hughton, speaking to the club's official website, said: "We had a lot of very high calibre applicants for the job, but Ben stood out as our number one choice. His credentials are first class, and he already has an understanding of the club."

The Argus revealed on Saturday Roberts had been lined up to succeed Antti Niemi, who has returned to Finland for family reasons.

Roberts, who helped Albion to promotion back to the Championship in 2003-04 via the play-offs, said: "I'm ecstatic to be back at Brighton. I've made no secret that my happiest years as a professional footballer were spent down here, as I had a special affinity with the fans at Withdean.

"Ever since briefly helping Dean Wilkins with the coaching in the summer of 2007, before starting university, I've had it in my head that I wanted to one day return as a coach.

"After speaking to Chris Hughton and Paul Barber, I am in no doubt that the time is right - the infrastructure already in place and vision of the club for the future really excites me.

"I can't wait to get started working with Stocky, Casper & Christian and very much looking forward to the season ahead."