Joao Teixeira insists he is “growing” as a player with Albion – despite an up-and-down Championship season so far.

The on-loan attacking midfielder is back with the Seagulls after international duty.

But he admits a Portugal under-21s recall has given him a big lift during his season away from Liverpool.

Teixeira was a sensation in his opening games for the Seagulls but has struggled to produce that form on a regular basis.

He is targeting Championship action at Norwich on Saturday after a return to the Portuguese set-up as coach Rui Jorge gave fringe players a chance.

Teixeira said: “Midfield is the toughest area to break into in the national squad.

“I’ve got friends in the squad playing in top teams and top divisions but the English second division is quite good. The football is very intense. I think I’m growing as a player this year “I’m gaining experience. I’ve been playing a lot of games up to now.”

Teixeira gave Albion the only lead they have enjoyed away from home in the Championship this season when he scored at Leeds in August.

They are chasing a second win on their travels while Teixeira also has the carrot of keeping his international place when frontline players are brought back.

He had about ten minutes, including stoppage time, off the bench in a 3-1 friendly defeat to England at Turf Moor last Thursday.

Portugal then had a training camp back home and did not arrange a second fixture.

Teixeira said: “I wasn’t expecting the recall because I have been out for quite a long time. I’m now going to work hard for my club to show what I can do every week.

“I had very little playing time but I’m really happy to be back.

“It’s hard because there a lot of quality players – but that’s good for the squad and the manager. It gives him more choices.”