Steve Sidwell has issued a keep me plea to Albion.

The veteran midfielder believes he is worth another crack at the Premier League after helping the Seagulls to promotion.

Sidwell's contract is up at the end of the season.

The 34-year-old, re-signed from Stoke last summer after a loan spell with Albion from Arsenal as a teenager, told The Argus: "My main reason for coming back to the club this year was to create history.

"I knew it was on the brink of doing it. It wasn't a matter of if, it was a matter of when.

"I'm proud to be part of that history but I want to be part of it next year - staying in the League as well. We can do that."

 

Sidwell has made 35 appearances for Chris Hughton's promotion heroes, including the goal of the season from 50 yards at Bristol City.

"All I can say is I've put my best foot forward," he said. "I don't think the manager or probably anyone involved at the club would have thought I would play as many games as I have done.

"That is probably testament to myself. When I have played I've played well and it's been hard to take me out of the team.

"I've tried my best and given myself every opportunity to earn myself a contract. If we can get one done and get it over the line I'd be delighted, so fingers crossed."

Sidwell has played 200 games in the Premier League for Chelsea, Fulham, Stoke, Reading and Albion's last game hosts Aston Villa.

"You need that in these kind of dressing rooms," he said. "Emotions run high and low and you need to be in there to keep a happy medium. It's with people like me that the experience comes into play to keep that going."