Adam El-Abd insisted today he can hold his head up high, even if he loses his place in the Albion team.

The Brighton-born defender has been deputising for the injured Paul McShane at centre half.

Saturday's visit to Championship leaders Reading is his last chance to impress, with McShane expecting to be fit to face fellow strugglers Hull at Withdean in eight days' time after a rapid recovery from sprained ankle ligaments.

"It's a massive game for us," said El-Abd. "I cannot wait to play in it to test myself against some of the best strikers in the League and the best side in the League. It will be a good benchmark for us.

"All I can do is the best I can. Hopefully that will be good enough to stay in the side, if not I'll have to keep plugging away.

"I can't have done any more when I've played. Whatever the manager decides I know I've done myself justice and can hold my head up high.

"I'm fairly pleased with the way I've played. We had a clean sheet against Derby and another good result at Watford last Saturday.

"The squad is fairly thin. We haven't got many players and Paul's quality is obviously going to help."

The showdown at the Madejski Stadium may not be the end of El-Abd's first team stint, even if McShane returns against Hull. Manager Mark McGhee has the option of using the versatile powerhouse at rightback.

"I would play in goal if he wanted me to," said El-Abd. "Personally I think centre half is my best position but I would have no worries about playing at rightback."

Albion have launched a Kids For A Quid scheme in a bid to attract the next generation of fans.

Under-tens will be admitted for £1, providing they are accompanied by an adult purchasing a £22.50 ticket, for the Hull match, when the North-East Stand becomes the Family Stand.