GUS Poyet says Albion need to be “careful” about David's contract situation.

The influential former Athletic Bilbao midfielder’s one-year deal expires in the summer.

Boss Poyet told The Argus: “There are 11 players out of contract. It’s a terrible situation, not nice. It works both ways. He is free as well. He can go anywhere.

“I think they know where we are standing. They know their situation and I think they are quite happy, so I am not yet in a situation where I need to rush, but time is getting close and we need to be careful.”

Leo Ulloa’s hat-trick overshadowed another outstanding display by David in the 4-1 home victory against Huddersfield.

The Spaniard had two shots cleared off the line in the second half before setting up Ulloa’s second goal from a corner and adding his sixth goal in 13 games from the penalty spot.

Poyet said: “We are asking ourselves now whether we made a mistake not playing him at the beginning of the season. We were top but you can play him anywhere. His understanding of the game, his touch, his ability to see where the space is, the movement, he is a top player. We are very lucky to have him.

“I am happy for him because he waited calmly. He didn’t complain. He showed that type of character that when I play I am going to show you and he has. “The penalties as well. What a change from last year to this year. Now we want to have a penalty. Before we were trying to change a penalty for a throw-in or corner!” Andy Naylor