Albion staff have received a rallying call as they prepare for a big Premier League week.

The Seagulls are seeking a response on the pitch to their numbing 5-0 home defeat by Bournemouth.

Club employees found a motivational message from vice-chairman Paul Barber in their inboxes as they arrived at work today.

He tells them they have been tested before and come back from bigger setbacks than face them now.

Albion’s first team would move eight points clear of the drop zone if they beat Cardiff tomorrow.

In his message, Barber told colleagues: “What a difference a week makes. The pride we all felt at Wembley last weekend was obviously overshadowed by yesterday’s fall and heavy loss against AFC Bournemouth.

“It wasn’t the result we wanted, and of course we’re all very disappointed. Nobody is making any excuses. It’s now a test of our collective character, and our togetherness.

“At this football club, we win – and we lose – together. We have all enjoyed some very good times in recent seasons, and now we must stay focused in a much tougher week.

“We can’t change Saturday’s result but we can all get behind our players and coaching staff, to help put things right on Tuesday evening when Cardiff City visit the Amex.

“Our players, coaches and all of our staff worked extremely hard to earn and retain our place in the Premier League; it means a lot to all of us, and it’s still very much in our hands.

“Let’s not forget we have been tested before.

“We’ve had to pick ourselves up after bigger setbacks, and we’ve come back stronger and more determined. We can do so again.

“So, once again, let’s do all we can to help Chris, his staff, and our players to deliver a better result for our fans on Tuesday night.

“Thank you for your continued support.”

A small number of tickets remained on sale for the Cardiff game last night, mainly in the South Stand.