Hughton: We're up for the challenge

Although the Seagulls are seven points clear of the relegation zone, they have a tough final six matches beginning with Saturday’s trip to rivals Crystal Palace.

Brighton drew 0-0 with the Eagles at the Amex in the league in November, before they won 2-1 in the FA Cup third round in January.

Hughton admits there’s pressure goinng into the game but said: “The players will be up for it. I don’t think there will be anybody that won’t want to play in that game.

“It’s a pressurised game because of the rivalry but it’s another opportunity to get more points.

“It would be very nice to be on the points now that would make my life a little bit easier in this last month or so but that’s my job. My job now is to make sure I pick a team that’s ready to get a result at Crystal Palace.”

Hughton acknowledges Albion have a tough finish after they only drew 1-1 with Huddersfield on Saturday.

After collecting just one point from three league matches, he said: “As regards lifting the players, they will know the next game if anything becomes an even bigger game.

“I don’t think there will be anybody in that changing room that won’t be up for that challenge, but of course the challenge becomes bigger.”