Former Brighton midfielder Dale Stephens hopes to tie up a new deal in January.

He was released by Burnley in the summer and has since spent time training with Albion and Middlesbrough to maintain fitness.

Stephens said: “I'm still looking for a club. I was fortunate to go back to Brighton for the first three weeks of pre-season and I've trained with a couple of other clubs.

“I've turned four or five contracts down as I just didn't feel they were right for me or my family.

“I want the right opportunity rather than just jumping at anything.

“Football clubs chop and change their squads halfway through the season so fingers crossed something falls into place in the next few weeks and I can get back playing."