Daniel Marney wants to prove he still has a part to play at Albion.

The young frontrunner is enjoying another taste of first team football on loan to Southend, but he still sees his future with the Seagulls.

Marney's one-year contract runs out at the end of the season.

"I'd like to think I have got a future at Brighton," said the 21-year-old. "They are a great bunch of lads, with a good staff and set-up.

"I have been there two years as a pro and did my YTS there, so I would like to continue there.

"When I get back I will get my head down and try and use the experience I have gained with Southend."

Marney made his senior debut for Albion against today's hosts Walsall at Withdean in August.

He started five of the next six matches as well when Martin Hinshelwood was in charge, operating both as an orthodox striker and right winger, but he has not featured so far under Steve Coppell.

Marney agreed last week to extend his stay with Division Three Southend to a second month prior to them completing a hat-trick of victories against Oxford at Roots Hall.

"I'm really enjoying it," he said. "The boys have made me feel at home and I've settled in really well. I am just enjoying getting experience.

"It's first team football I need. I was playing for the reserves at Brighton after starting the season with the first team. I am only young and it's just a case of getting games under my belt.

"You notice the drop in standard from the First, but you just adapt to it.

"At the moment I am playing wide on the right. It's been a change from playing up front, being able to get crosses in."

Marney has two more matches, at home to Bristol Rovers and away to Wrexham, before his stint with the Shrimpers comes to an end.

Adam Virgo's extended loan spell with Exeter was scheduled to finish with today's home game against Shrewsbury.