Richie Towell’s chances of playing regularly at Brighton just got more difficult

It was never going to be easy.

Richie Towell faces further competition to earn a regular starting spot with Brighton & Hove Albion, as the club have signed Steve Sidwell on-loan from Stoke City. https://twitter.com/OfficialBHAFC/status/691660117876576256 The 33 year old central midfielder, who has also played for Reading, Chelsea and Aston Villa, will add to Brighton's already considerable options in that position. "Steve is an experienced player who has played virtually his entire career in the Premier League," Brighton manager Chris Hughton told the club's website. "He knows this club, as well as a few of the squad and will supplement our existing midfield options." In addition to Towell, signed from Dundalk after a stunning season in which he netted 29 goals, and Sidwell, the club recently signed attacking midfielder Anthony Knockaert. Beram Kayal, Dale Stephens and Andrew Crofts have also featured in central midfield for the Seagulls this season as the club chase promotion to the Premier League. They are currently third in the Championship.Towell would've undoubtedly anticipated strong competition for places upon joining Brighton. The 24 year old Dubliner made his debut for the side in their 1-0 loss to Hull City in the FA Cup third round earlier this month, and impressed his manager. However, he has yet to make an appearance in the league, and was an unused substitute during Brighton's 2-1 win over Huddersfield Town last weekend. Hopefully he can get some game time soon and build on his exploits for Dundalk last season.