Former Albion captain turned commerical chief Paul Rogers has been sacked for "gross misconduct".

The club announced his shock departure in a statement on their website.

The statement said: "Brighton & Hove Albion has terminated the employment contract of commercial and premium partnerships manager, Paul Rogers, for reasons of gross misconduct.

"The decision follows an internal investigation and disciplinary process and is effective immediately.

"In line with UK employment law and the club’s internal procedures, Paul Rogers has the right to appeal the decision. The club will not make any further comment on this matter."

Ex-midfielder Rogers, 52, helped Albion to the League Two and League One titles back-to-back before retiring when they were relegated from the Championship in 2003.

He became sales manager for five years and has been commercial manager since 2008.