Albion newcomer Doug Loft vowed today to give it everything in the battle for Championship survival.

The teenage midfielder is eager to make an impact after agreeing a contract until the summer of 2007.

Loft, formerly with Hastings and Gillingham, has joined the Seagulls' fight for safety following a successful trial.

The 19-year-old from Maidstone could be in contention for a place on the bench at second-placed Sheffield United on Saturday after watching the 2-1 home win over Leeds which eased Albion back out of the relegation zone.

"It was a good game and a great result, said Loft. "I signed about 15 minutes before the kick-off and I kept thinking I just want to be out there and play but the boys did brilliantly. I just hope we can beat Sheffield United now.

"Anything I can do for the team and anyway I can get in I'll just give it my best shot.

"The gaffer said I've got to build up my upper body, get a bit stronger, and then take it from there.

"I just want to settle down, do well in training and then it's up to him if he thinks I'm ready."

Loft, an ex-England schoolboy, is thrilled Albion have given him the chance to fulfill a dream.

"It's everything to me and I want to put everything I've got into it," he said. "I'm so focused on building up and progressing as a player.

"This is what I've always wanted to do since I was little and to get the opportunity is just brilliant."