Brighton transfer news: Bruno returns as former captain joins Graham Potter’s backroom staff after retiring last season

The Spaniard will begin the next phase of his career back with the Seagulls as part of Graham Potter’s coaching staff

Former Brighton and Hove Albion defender Bruno Saltor is back at the club after being appointed as senior player development coach.

The 38-year-old called time on his career at the end of last season, retiring after seven years on the south coast.

But the Spaniard will begin the next phase of his career back with the Seagulls as part of new head coach Graham Potter's backroom staff.

Bruno arrived at Brighton from Valencia in 2012 and went on to make more than 230 appearances for the club, helping them win promotion to the Premier League.

Bruno's new role will see him work in the first-team set-up, with an emphasis on helping new players adapt to life at the south-coast club while also mentoring the under-23 squad and providing support to players out on loan. Potter, who was appointed following the departure of Chris Hughton at the end of last season, feels the former defender can only have a positive impact as he embarks on his new career.

"I am aware of Bruno's influence at the club over the years, both on and off the field, and we're delighted he's agreed to stay on in this new role," Potter told the club's official website.

"His familiarity with the club, the city and our fans, as well as his relationship with the existing players in our squad, will be extremely beneficial to me and the rest of the coaching staff."

Bruno hung up his boots at the end of last season (Action Images via Reuters)

Brighton technical director Dan Ashworth added: "We have a real commitment to helping players transition from playing to coaching as it's something that is often overlooked.

"Bruno is held is such high esteem by the first-team squad and is a fantastic role model for the younger players at the club."

Brighton have already added to their squad with the signing of winger Leandro Trossard from Belgian champions Genk and centre-back Matt Clarke from Portsmouth.