Chris McPhee today told Albion boss Mark McGhee: "I am 100 per cent fit for the first time in 16 months."

The striker has struggled with foot injuries since helping the Seaggulls earn promotion to the Championship via the play-offs at the Millennium Stadium last May.

He broke his left foot while training during the summer following the triumph in Cardiff and ended up starting just six matches last season.

McGhee decided to loan the 22-year-old to Conference side Aldershot last month to improve his fitness and he is set for his sixth game in 23 days against fellow strugglers Crawley in front of the Sky TV cameras at the Recreation Ground tonight (7.45pm).

McPhee, who has scored once for the Shots, hopes to show the Albion boss he is fit and ready for a recall.

He said: "I didn't have the best of pre-seasons. I felt sluggish, way off the pace, because I had been a bit wary of doing any damage to my foot in the summer.

"When I was offered the chance to go on loan I was happy because I knew I was going to get a lot of games. I feel a lot fitter and sharper, although I haven't scored as many goals as I thought I'd be able to.

"It is a good feeling to be 100 per cent fit for the first time in 16 months. I can start concentrating on my football, while ticking over with a few weights.

"The fact I am 100 per cent fit is a plus point to me. I feel confident again and more positive because of the way I have been playing."