Adams led Albion to the old Third Division title during his first spell in charge of the club from April 1999 to October 2001. He takes over a club that finished just outside the play-off positions in seventh in League One this season.

Chairman Dick Knight said: "This decision has not been taken lightly, but the board feel we need a manager with the wealth of experience to help the club make the leap into the Championship. Dean's strengths lie in coaching and the development of players and that is why we have offered him the role of senior coach under Micky."

Adams has also worked at Fulham and Leicester and was most recently assistant boss at Colchester.

Adams said: "Having worked at the club previously, which was a fantastic and rewarding experience, to get the chance to manage a super football club like Brighton & Hove Albion again was an opportunity I couldn't turn down.

"I look forward to working alongside Dean Wilkins, the players and the rest of the coaching staff - and working together with the Albion supporters - to try and get this club back into the Championship as we move towards our new home."