Albion will be up against a new boss – or another caretaker manager - in their next fixture.

Dean Smith has been sacked as Aston Villa boss after a run of five defeats.

The Seagulls go to Villa Park a week on Saturday when action resumes after the international window.

They were held 1-1 yesterday by a Newcastle side who had interim boss Graeme Jones in the technical area while prospective new boss Eddie Howe watched from the West Stand.