Bubbling Abdallah Sima to Rangers transfer swirl may have answer as Brighton exile signals one route 'home'

Winger Abdallah Sima has rapidly dropped out of the picture at Brighton - leading some fans to call for a return to Rangers.

The 23-year-old caught the eye of the Ibrox support and Philippe Clement last season despite an injury-hampered spell in the Scottish Premiership. He returned to the Seagulls in search of a second chance in the English Premier League this summer - but has quickly dropped out of the picture before the start of the campaign under new boss Fabian Hurzeler.

The wide man was involved in the club’s tour of Japan as the German weighed up his options on the flanks - but with Brighton set to open the season against Aston Villa next weekend Sima was not named in the squad for the final pre-season friendly against Villarreal at the AMEX Stadium. It follows on from being snubbed from the matchday side for the friendly clash with QPR last weekend.

That has led to supporter speculation over a return ramping up. Sima could be moved on before the end of the window with the Senegal international already in the final 12 months of contract on the south coast. During his time in Govan, he left the door open for a potential return to Rangers - while admitting any deal was out of his hands.

Before the end of his temporary stint in Glasgow, Sima said: “It’s not up to me. I always say I feel at home here and I’m happy to be here. I’ve always loved to give everything for this shirt. As I say, this place feels like home and I feel everyone wants to stay in a place that feels like home, so we will see in the next few weeks."

But boss Clement - who admitted to still being in contact with the forward - conceded a return would only be on the cards if Brighton reduce their £7million asking price for a player he branded "one