Leon Knight could not resist a parting snub for McGhee by omitting any mention of the manager in a message of thanks to Albion.

In a statement released via his representatives, Icon Sports Management, Knight said: "I had three great seasons at Brighton and made some good friends.

"Brighton fans have also been first class to me and my greatest memory in football is the goal that I scored to get Brighton promoted to the Championship at the Millennium Stadium.

"Brighton's approval for their new stadium will hopefully take the club in a new direction and give the fans and the team the stadium they deserve.

"Special thanks go to the chairman Dick Knight. What he has done for Brighton is unbelievable and he has been fantastic to me during my time at Brighton.

"I have made many friends within the team and special thanks go to Charlie Oatway and Albert Jarrett.

"There are many good players coming through like Jake Robinson and Colin Kazim-Richards who are the future of Brighton. I wish Brighton the best of luck and every success for the rest of the season."