Albion boss Steve Coppell is banking on Bobby Zamora making a difference in Wednesday's crucial relegation clash at Stoke.

Zamora was suspended for the 3-0 setback at Gillingham on Saturday.

It was the Seagulls' ninth League defeat out of nine this season without their attacking spearhead.

They go to the Britannia Stadium still clear of the relegation zone after the three teams below them all lost at home.

Stoke were beaten 1-0 by Burnley, so Albion remain a point and two places above them.

"It sets it up nicely," said Coppell. "I hope Bobby makes a difference and feels as though he is going to be the difference.

"It's a massive game, psychologically more than the three points.

"The result is not going to make or break either team but if you get a good result you feel that much better about things."

Second-half goals by Paul Shaw, substitute Tommy Johnson from the spot and Nicky Southall brought an end to Albion's run of three straight victories.

Coppell felt the penalty awarded against Ivar Ingimarsson for a foul on Johnson was questionable.

"He made a challenge and it was just his momentum," Coppell said. "He was almost rolling over.

"Tommy Johnson did brilliantly, as cute as anything. He knew exactly what he was doing, the way he fell and the sound effects which went with it."

Ingimarsson claimed the result flattered Gillingham, who chalked up their fifth home League win in a row.

"There was not much between the two teams," said the Icelander.

"In the first half we had the better of the chances and didn't take them.

"The second half was pretty much the same. I think it was a rather harsh result."

Gary Hart is still suspended for the Stoke trip, so one of Saturday's strike pairing of Anthony Rougier and Graham Barrett will partner Zamora.

Meanwhile, Wolves have agreed to extend Ivar Ingimarsson's loan, but the Icelandic defender remains on instant recall.

Full match report at thisithealbion.co.uk