Matt Upson says Albion have come through a test of character by staying in the hunt for promotion since January.

The Seagulls entered the new year transfer window in ninth, three points outside the play-offs.

They go to Sheffield Wednesday tonight with the same gap between them and the top six and a place higher, despite the departures in the opening month of 2014 of Liam Bridcutt, Ashley Barnes and Adam El-Abd and the long-term injury suffered by Andrew Crofts.

Oscar Garcia's side have remained in touch with five wins and three defeats in the league since the window closed.

Upson told The Argus: "I think it's a real test of the character of the team, how we've done. We had a difficult period in January with injuries and players leaving the club.

"We weren't quite able to recruit as many or maybe who we wanted to so, from that point of view, I think it has been a real success the last couple of months.

"Regardless of what happens at the end of the season I thought it was a good response and shows you the strength the squad actually has."