Chris Hughton expects a battle royal for the No.1 spot after getting a first look at his new goalkeeper in Albion colours.

New boy Niki Maenpaa was beaten by Sam McQueen’s pinpoint 90th-minute strike as the Seagulls lost 1-0 in a friendly to Southampton behind closed doors yesterday.

But the Finnish international enjoyed a sound first run out and is off to a promising start after linking up with the squad for the first time this week.

Hughton is confident he will bring the best out of David Stockdale but confirms the former Fulham and Ipswich man remains his first choice in goal for now.

The Seagulls boss said: “I thought Niki did well. He was quite confident in everything he had to do.

“It was a real shame to concede right at the end but there were a lot of positives for the team.

“We know Niki is a very good goalkeeper. What you want is a second goalkeeper who will push and push and compete to play. David has the shirt at the moment but the ideal situation is to have someone who comes in as second keeper and gives real competition.”

Maenpaa trained at Lancing while Albion were in the Alps last week.

Hughton said: “Monday was the first time I had worked with him.

“He has settled in very well – but most people settle very well at this club.”

Stockdale missed the Saints trip through illness but Hughton said: “He could have played if he had really had to.”

Albion are still working on a loan deal for young keeper Christian Walton, who played the first half.

Dale Stephens also got 45 minutes after recovering from illness but Gordon Greer and Andrew Crofts were not risked.

The Seagulls looked good for a draw until Saido Mane’s dynamic break to set up the goal.

Southampton played their senior side for an hour while Albion used two different XIs.

Hughton said: “Of course it’s about fitness but I was pleased with the performance.”