Ben Roberts today thanked Albion for helping him to the brink of the Champions League.

The former Seagulls and Middlesbrough keeper is due to make his debut for Eircom League of Ireland outfit Derry City at the weekend.

That could lead to a European spot when the Champions League qualifying rounds start in July.

Roberts, Albion's keeper in their play-off success three years ago, was forced into retirement by a back injury in 2005.

But he has since made a steady recovery, helped by a period away from the game, treatment, rehab and training with Albion goalkeeping coach John Keeley.

He said: "Everybody at Brighton was really helpful. They couldn't do enough to help me back on my feet.

"I've been with them two days a week since November, going in two days a week, right up until I came to Derry.

"I've kept Keelo informed all the way along. He has been a huge help to me, both physically and mentally.

"He has kept me right and, when there have been times maybe I've wanted to push on too quickly, he has held me back.

"He knows me as a person and as a keeper and that helps."

Roberts did not take an insurance pay-out when he retired so he could play again for an English club, including Albion, for whom he kept a series of cleansheets in the 2003-04 promotion run-in.

He said: "I don't know where the reports about the insurance came from. I didn't take any payment so there's no restriction on where I can play.

"But I've got no plans because I need to see how the body holds up.

"Just to be training every day is great. I'm here until the transfer window in Ireland at the beginning of July.

"Then I'll see how I feel and how the club feel."

Derry are currently off the pace in the league, which runs through the summer, but were runners-up in 2006.

Champions Shelbourne decided not to apply for a UEFA licence, clearing the way for Derry to play in the Champions League.

Roberts, 31, was a spectator at last night's televised league game with Shamrock.

His debut could come on Saturday at Longford, scene of Albion's infamous pre-season battle in 2001.