Inigo Calderon says his new coaching challenge reminds him of when he joined Albion.

The popular former right-back has taken charge at Bristol Rovers as they battle against the drop in League One.

They are in a similar situation to when he was brought in as a free agent by Seagulls boss Gus Poyet in January 2010.

Calderon has until recently been head coach of Albion under-18s.

He said: “I have similar feelings as when I went to Brighton as a player.

“We were fighting in League One against relegation but it was something coming on really good about the stadium, the training ground.

“Everything around the club, I think, is in a good place and I have all those feelings.

“In the end it is not about good things, it is about feelings."

Rovers have handed Calderon his first role in senior management.

He said: “I had to convince them because obviously I have been coaching in the academies.

“But I have so much desire. I am willing to do things right.

“I think they saw the passion I have for football and I think I can bring that to the football club.”

Calderon met fans and watched from the stand as his new players went down 3-1 at Exeter City on Boxing Day.

He now prepares for his first game in charge as Rovers go to Stevenage on Sunday.

He said: “I have been watching them training. I have been watching a lot of games from them and they have maybe room to improve.

“They need confidence but, trust me, they can play good football and that is what I am trying to do here.”