Boss Chris Hughton says Albion's FA Cup last 32 tie at Middlesbrough on Saturday is a "welcome break" from the fight for Premier League safety.

The Seagulls visit the Championship promotion challengers after knocking out bitter rivals Crystal Palace in the last round.

Hughton said: "Now we are in the Premier League it is, in some ways, a welcome break from the rigours of the division and there is an excitement that comes with a Cup competition.

"We had a difficult game in the last round which we came through without the need for a replay and we are very much looking forward to this one."

Boro manager Tony Pulis was in charge of West Brom when Albion won for the first time in the Premier League at the Amex in September.

Hughton said: "They've had some ups and downs this season as regards form but I very much expect them to have a strong run through to the end of the season.

"Of course, Tony is a manager I know very well and there is never a game against one of his teams that is not a difficult game.

"We are away from home, Middlesbrough are on the back of a very good win last time out against Queens Park Rangers, so we expect a very difficult game."

Striker Glenn Murray, under investigation in relation to allegations of tax fraud, is in contention for the trip to the Riverside Stadium, where Albion suffered heartache in a Championship promotion decider with Middlesbrough on their last visit in May 2016.

Hughton confirmed: "Glenn trained today and will be in the squad for Saturday."