Albion new boy Nathan Elder celebrated his big break into the professional ranks and admitted: "I'm here to learn."

The 21-year-old 6ft 1in striker has swapped his job in a warehouse and Ryman League football at Billericay for an 18-month deal with the Seagulls.

Elder was a prolific marksman for his non-league club but is offering no bold promises about making an impact in League One.

He got a taste of the higher standard by watching yesterday's game at Withdean, then said: "Coming from a few leagues below you just want to learn and improve yourself as a player.

"When I got to Billericay, that was the highest I had been and I learned from the guys there.

"This is the first major opening for me and I'm just looking to learn from the players who are here."

Elder has been tracked by Albion since last season and reckons he can add aerial strength to the frontline.

He said: "I'm a very aggressive player. I like to get stuck in a lot."

Seagulls boss Dean Wilkins has called on fans to have patience with his latest recruit. He said: "It would be silly to expect too much too soon. We'll tread carefully, have a good look at him and try to make the right decision as to when he gets involved."