BEN A BIT OF ALL WHITE

BEN WHITE has the talent to succeed at the top level – despite playing a variety of positions.

The defender, 23, is a key man for

Brighton boss Graham Potter and has filled a number of roles for the South Coast club. Going into tomorrow’s game against Crystal Palace, he has racked up 23 appearances for the Seagulls this season.

Potter has been keen to deploy White in a variety of different positions.

But former Brighton star Adam Virgo has warned that tactical tinkering might be detrimental to White’s long-term prospects.

“He has played at centre-back, holding midfield, right wing-back and left wing-back,” said Virgo. “I’ve been there myself as a so-called ‘utility player.’ You can do jobs in certain positions but finding consistency can be a slight issue.

“I think it’s difficult to concentrate and improve your game when you get asked to play in different roles over a season. It’s not easy, especially at this level.

“If centre-back is your strongest position, but you are being asked to fill in at wing-back, then you risk getting found out.

“It’s a testament to the quality he’s got that he can play in a number of positions. But going from last season, where he was just a regular centre-back, to now slotting into different areas at Brighton has hindered his progression.”

White spent last season on loan with Leeds in the Championship. He impressed at Elland Road and Marcelo Bielsa was desperate to keep him. Brighton, however, refused to do a deal and snubbed three offers in excess of £20million.

Virgo insists the Seagulls were right to hold their ground and added: “Had Brighton sold White to Leeds it would have been a big mistake, especially with them being a rival.”

★ Virgo is co-founder of Hype Football Management and runs the Adam Virgo Academy – adamvirgoacademy.com hypesportsmanagement.com

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WARNING: Ben White and (above) Adam Virgo