Albion defender Adam El-Abd has secured his future by signing a two-year contract extension.

His existing deal was due to expire at the end of the season but the 21-year-old has been rewarded for his first team performances with an extension to June 2008.

El-Abd has established himself as the Seagulls' regular rightback since forcing his way back into the starting line-up in November. He has also been used on occasions at centre half.

Manager Mark McGhee said: "Adam had a lot to prove. He had to knuckle down, but he has done that by working very hard and thoroughly deserves his new deal."

Young defender Gary Elphick has left Albion and signed a permanent deal with St Albans, where he was on loan last season.

Elphick has also been on loan at Aldershot. He made his only senior start for the Seagulls at Reading in December, when he was sent-off.