Albion keeper Dave Beasant is on course to play in the must-win final two matches of the season.

A scan on the 44-year-old's right thigh injury has revealed bruising rather than muscle damage.

He should now be fit to face Watford at Withdean on Saturday and Grimsby in the final game of the season on Sunday May 4.

Beasant hurt himself in the opening minutes of Monday's 1-1 home draw against relegated Sheffield Wednesday, which has left the Seagulls with a six-point deficit to make up on Stoke.

He landed heavily diving across his goal to cover a header from Grant Holt, who went on to score and concede a penalty for the visitors.

Ivar Ingimarsson took the dead ball kicks for the rest of the game, while Beasant kicked left-footed out of his hands.

He had a scan yesterday and physio Malcolm Stuart said: "It's quite good news. It seems there is no damage to the muscle. When he landed he bruised the thigh which caused a nerve blockage.

"That is why he was in pain kicking but we are fairly optimistic he will play at the weekend."

Beasant said: "Hopefully I will be okay. It didn't restrict my movement too much.

"I felt it a little bit and it obviously restricted me kicking the ball, which puts a bit more pressure and onus on the defenders.

"I've kicked a few times with my left foot. I think it's vital to be able to use both feet."

Beasant has not given up hope of Albion pulling off a Houdini-type escape act.

"We've still got a chance," he said. "Our second half performance against Wednesday showed a bit of grit and character."

Injury-plagued Paul Kitson is likely to be involved in the last two matches after making his first start for seven months on Monday.

Coppell said: "It went okay, inconclusive really. It was obvious he needed games but with three left there were not many opportunities. Playing on Monday will certainly help him for the remaining two matches."

Dean White will not be in charge of the Reserves against Brentford at Worthing tonight (7pm). He is recovering at home after collapsing with a virus during a training session at Withdean on Sunday.

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