Brighton and Hove Albion boss Micky Adams says he will look to sign Matt Richards on a permanent basis in January. Richards made his 50th appearance for the Seagulls in Saturday's 1-0 defeat at Hartlepool.

Adams said: "I'd like to keep him. I think that is something we have to look at for sure but there is more than one party in it. There's me, Matt and his agent.

"He's a good defender. He handles the ball, he can play and he is quick.”

Richards, whose Town contract is up in the summer, says he has been happy during his three spells at the Withdean: "I've come back every time and really enjoyed it.

"I can't say a bad word about the place. I get on really well with the lads and that is important as well, so it is definitely a place where I'd consider staying.”

Elsewhere, Billy Clarke made his 16th appearance for Darlington as the Quakers beat Dagenham and Redbridge 3-0 at home on Saturday but didn't add to his eight goals. The Irishman was replaced by former Blue Adam Proudlock with 12 minutes remaining.

Dan Harding missed out for Southend due to his suspension for his recent red card, while Chris Casement was unused sub as Hamilton lost 3-1 at home to Rangers, but is expected to play in the midweek League Cup tie against the same opposition at Ibrox. Liam Trotter played and scored for Grimsby on Friday.

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