Chris Hughton wants to see Solly March come of age this season – by flying down the wing for Albion.

The former Lewes prospect, who turned 21 yesterday, saw his chances of making a sustained impact under his new boss ruined by a lower leg fracture last season.

But Hughton, who sees him primarily as a wide man, is excited about what he can offer.

Albion are hunting for more attacking width as one of their priorities ahead of the new Championship season.

Hughton would love to see March shine in that department after making just three league starts for the current boss before suffering injury in defeat to Nottingham Forest on February 7.

Oscar Garcia, the head coach who gave March his big break at senior level, saw him primarily as an attacking midfielder.

But Hughton has other ideas about the man who scored a stunning goal from the right wing against his Norwich City side two years ago.

He told The Argus: “Solly’s a wide player. He can actually play three positions along the attack.

“He can play on the left flank as well or in that position just off the front man, as a No.10.

“He is a good player and I see him primarily as a wide player.

“What happened to him last season was such a shame.

“I saw a bit of him and then he picked up the injury and missed a period which was a big disappointment. I’m looking forward to seeing more of him.”

Meanwhile, Albion goalkeeping prospect Christian Walton is expected to complete a season-long loan switch to League One newcomers Bury today.

Several third tier clubs expressed an interest in borrowing the England under-20s international after the Seagulls signed Finnish international Niki Maenpaa to rival current No.1 David Stockdale.

Bury, promoted under David Flitcroft last season, have been hand-picked by Albion as the best fit for Walton to widen his experience with a progressive club playing progressive football, where he is also likely to play regularly.

Albion’s under-21s have a friendly at Enfield tonight (7.45pm).