Albion boss Chris Hughton has put the captain’s armband up for grabs if Bruno is absent.

The Spanish defender was confirmed last week as the Seagulls’ skipper for the new season.

Hughton has decided against officially appointing a deputy.

He told The Argus: “I’ve not named a vice-captain. I would prefer, if for some reason Bruno is not playing, just to name somebody. We’ve got some good candidates.”

Liam Rosenior and David Stockdale, both experienced and vocal, are obvious contenders in the unlikely event of Bruno being absent for any length of time.

The 35-year-old former Valencia right-back started all 48 Championship games for Albion last season in the regular campaign and the play-offs.

He took over as as skipper when Gordon Greer encountered injury problems.

Greer was released at the end of the season, paving the way for Bruno’s permanent appointment as team leader.

Scotland international Greer, 35, is currently without a club.

Reading were interested in the centre-half when Brian McDermott was manager but McDermott was replaced last month by Jaap Stam.