Graham Potter has described Dale Stephens as a fantastic servant to Albion and a joy to work with.

The midfielder has signed for Burnley on a two-year deal.

He could make the 100th top-flight appearance of his career against his old club Southampton on Saturday.

Stephens had been with the Seagulls since midway through the 2013-14 season and helped them secure promotion and survival in the Prem.

Potter said: “He has been a fantastic servant for this club.

“I think in the modern day to have that period of time at a club says a lot about him, promotion, stabilising in the Premier League he has been wonderful for the club.

“He should be proud and I’m sure he is proud of what he has achieved with us. On a personal note the last year that I have worked with him he has been a joy to work with, professional, hard-working, honest and I have really enjoyed working with him.

READ MORE: Stephens signs for Burnley

“It just got to the stage like always sometimes in football, that you make a decision and I think the opportunity to get maybe a longer term deal for Dale was good for him and probably at the right time for the club.

“I think when a player is coming to that age and has that opportunity it is hard to stand in their way.

READ MORE: Remember when Stephens signed for the Seagulls?

“It was a good opportunity for him, we wish him well.

“He is welcome back here any time as he is a top guy.”