Albion winger Anthony Knockaert has given his full backing to boss Chris Hughton – after he was axed from the squad.

The star of last season’s promotion to the Premier League travelled to Yorkshire but was left out of the 18 for last Saturday’s 2-0 defeat at Huddersfield.

Knockaert returned to the right flank for Wednesday’s 2-0 defeat by Tottenham at Wembley.

The Frenchman revealed: “The gaffer told me the day before (Huddersfield) that I wasn’t going to start.

“I said to him I have to respect your choice and if you do it there is a reason for that.

“I respect that a lot. I think he is a great manager with great experience.

“He knows what he is doing. We have to respect that.

“That’s why we have a really good team spirit, because everyone respects each other.

“You know if he thinks someone has to play in that game, it’s a better option.

“I respect that and I am fully committed to my team-mates.

“It’s important to think like that for the team and not just for me.”

Albion bid for a first win in seven games against Burnley at the Amex today to halt their slide towards the relegation zone.

Knockaert said; “We know it’s going to be another tough game and another big test for us.

“But we are at home and we are capable of winning the game. We are looking forward to it. We know we need to come back to winning ways.”