Albion manager Dean Wilkins has saluted French debutant Alexis Bertin - for being man enough to say sorry.

The former Le Havre midfielder marred an encouraging first start for the Seagulls by losing possession to launch Jo Kuffour's first-half winner for Brentford.

Wilkins said: "He was very apologetic because he felt he cost us when he gave the ball away. I like that from a player, somebody who straight away acknowledges that he has messed up rather than you having to bring it to their attention.

"I think it takes a man to do that and I think generally he looks a good player. I would imagine it is a rare occurence for him to lose the ball in the middle of the field because I think his technique is good."

Wilkins is refusing to panic and has called for unity as Albion try to halt their slide at Leyton Orient tomorrow night.

He said of the Seagulls' relegation plight: "I am not even thinking of that situation, I am thinking of what we have got to do to win the next game. As long as we are focusing on that I think it will look after itself.

"It's a test for everybody but I trust my judgement and the information I am giving the players. We have all got to come together and make sure we put it right."