After losing out on promotion by goal difference last year, many were wondering whether Chris Hughton had it in him to regroup his side and push on this season.

But Hughton's managerial prowess is not to be underestimated and this Brighton side looks like it has renewed hope, expectations and they look even stronger going forward.

The summer arrivals of free scoring Glenn Murray alongside solid Republic of Ireland international centre half Shane Duffy have really improved the standard of the squad and they have both fitted into the side seamlessly.

Anthony Knockaert is still causing lots of problems down the wing whilst the central midfield regions are being patrolled and controlled expertly by Dale Stephens, Beram Kayal and Steve Sidwell.

David Stockdale in goal and the towering Lewis Dunk at the back make Brighton almost impossible to penetrate too.

But there is a weakness in the side that Hughton might look to address in the January window and that is full backs.

Granted, the experienced Spaniard Bruno is a competent defender but question marks are raised about his attacking qualities and the Seagulls spend more time going forward than they do defensively.

He is also quite old now and they could do with someone younger to oust him or at least keep him on his toes.

Ben Marshall might be the perfect man for the job.

The Blackburn right back can also play at left back or as a winger and he has flair, skill, pace and defensive capabilities.

Marshall is able to use both feet, comfortable in possession and he works hard, charging up and down the flank.

With his contract set to expire in the summer, the 25-year-old might look to jump ship from struggling Blackburn and Brighton would be an ideal destination for Marshall.

This is because he would probably start ahead of Bruno, learn from Bruno's experience on the training ground and there is a big chance that he would be playing Premier League football with the South Coast side next season - which must be his ultimate dream.

He might also be available on the cheap because Rovers will be forced to either sell in January or lose him for nothing at the end of the season.

Brighton fans - would you sign Marshall? Would he start ahead of Bruno? Let us know in the comments below...