Mayo backing Coppell for Seagulls

Mayo played more than 400 games during 14 years with the Seagulls

Former Brighton defender Kerry Mayo is backing ex-Seagulls boss Steve Coppell for a return to the club following Sunday's sacking of Russell Slade.

Mayo played under Coppell, who stepped down as Reading boss in the summer, during his spell in charge at Albion from 2002 to 2003.

Mayo told BBC Sussex: "He's a fantastic manager - second to none.

"The way he prepares you is different class. There's no blade of grass he doesn't cover with his analysis."

However, Mayo says departed boss Slade is not totally to blame for the club's poor start to the season.

"I feel a little bit sorry for him, to be honest. The lads will be disappointed because Russell's man management and his tactics were spot on.

"He's had time in the chair to try and pull it round but I feel he's been let down by the players."

A host of names have been linked to the post, including Dennis Wise, Adie Boothroyd and Gareth Southgate.

Director of football Martin Hinshelwood will take over as caretaker manager, assisted by Steve Brown and former Albion captain Charlie Oatway.

Hinshelwood took training on Monday, and told BBC Sussex: "It's a sad morning because we've worked with Russell for only eight months, but in that time we've managed to feel part of his team."

It is the third time Hinshelwood has been asked to be caretaker manager. He said: "I love football and I've enjoyed working here at Brighton. And if something comes along that needs doing, you do it.