Albion chief Steve Coppell expects next opponents Queens Park Rangers to be the benchmark for the Seagulls' own promotion prospects.

Both teams go into Monday's Withdean clash with a 100 per cent record from two League and Cup matches.

Coppell believes the game against the title favourites will provide a more accurate guide to Albion's chances for the rest of the season than the opening win at depleted Oldham and Tuesday's Carling Cup success at Third Division Bristol Rovers.

"I think that is the case without a doubt," he said. "Any team that finishes above QPR I think will be guaranteed promotion.

"Just given the nature of their recent couple of seasons and what they are about, you feel the progression they have made will mean their sights are very firmly set on going up.

"They look a very strong and powerful outfit, battle hardened in this division.

"If we can come through an encounter against them with anything then it will augur well for us."

QPR have been hit by the move of midfielder Richard Langley to Cardiff for £200,000.

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