MASSIVE KNOCK FOR HUGHTON

CHRIS HUGHTON could barely conceal his exasperation at the ridiculous ban Anthony Knockaert (right) brought on himself.

The Brighton forward’s challenge on Leighton Baines wasn’t just stupid, it was insane. A three-game suspension, for a two-footed lunge out on the touchline, with the game already lost. “I have no answer for it. It is a red card and I can’t defend it,” said Hughton, shaking his head.

“We can’t afford to lose players when you are a club like us. We have an incredibly tough finish, and we must make sure we don’t drop into areas where it becomes incredibly difficult.”