THREE Brighton and Hove Albion staff members have been sacked after it was suspected that team selection information was leaked on social media.

The three ground staff were dismissed after an investigation at the club’s training ground in Lancing.

The alleged leaks took place in the recent Premier League season, in which Albion narrowly escaped relegation. The club finished one place and two points above the relegation zone.

The staff are represented by the GMB Union.

A spokesman for the union claimed the investigation into staff included the “seizure of mobile phones” to check what they had been used for as well as “regular surprise interviews”.

They added that a letter from Albion’s HR department to the dismissed staff said the club would be “terminating employment without notice because they have lost all trust and confidence in the individuals”.

But the GMB says the employees should not have been dismissed and is calling for their “immediate re-instatement”.

Mark Turner, GMB branch secretary, said the union had seen no evidence linking its members to any sharing of team information.

The union is now seeking legal advice.

Mr Turner said: “The GMB will support all our members within BHAFC to ensure they are treated professionally, lawfully and with respect.”

In response to the claims, a club spokesman said: “The club does not comment on matters which it regards as confidential.”