DALE Stephens says his Albion future is “up in the air”.

His short-term goal is to get the Seagulls promoted and he will carry on giving his all – but there are no guarantees he will still be playing for them next season.

Burnley had six bids rejected for the central midfielder during last summer’s transfer window.

Stephens eventually handed in a transfer request and expressed his disappointment at the club blocking a move back to his native north-west in a Twitter message to fans.

He has knuckled down since the saga to play a key role in Albion’s promotion bid for the second season running.

Stephens, out of contract at the end of the season and speaking to The Argus about his future, said: “It’s up in the air, because I’ve not committed to anything yet.

“In that respect, I don’t look past this season. There’s a long way to go between now and the end. My aim is to get this club promoted.

“The ultimate aim for every player is to play in the Premier League. Whether that will be with Brighton or somebody else, it doesn’t change what my job’s been all season.

“It’s still the same from now to the end, whether at the end I go or stay. Everyone wants to play in it (Premier League). Hopefully we can do it this year.

“I’ve always said it wasn’t a case of I was unhappy here. I enjoy playing for this club and will continue to do so until my last day.

“It was an easy transition between not leaving and carrying on. I enjoy playing with these players and for this manager. Nothing’s changed.

“I said a few months back my job’s simple. I carry on playing in a good team and try and win games for this club.

“It’s a great club. I’ve enjoyed being here. Whether it finishes this year or not, I’d like to see this club in the Premier League.”

Stephens makes his 24th Championship appearance of the season for Albion against Ipswich at the Amex tonight and 99th in total. Boss Chris Hughton said: “Dale has been excellent for us right the way through. Most people are aware there were enquiries in the summer and rightly so.

“He is a good player, but his conduct right the way through that and his willingness to want to play has been excellent.

“He’s a big player for us. He was a big player for us last season and certainly a fit Dale in the squad is a plus for us. His form has been good.”