Chris Hughton has claimed Dale Stephens is undervalued - but not by Albion and other managers.

Stephens has been a midfield mainstay throughout Hughton’s reign.

The 29-year-old’s admirers include Sean Dyche, boss of today’s Amex visitors Burnley, who tried to sign him.

Hughton is hoping to have Stephens back from a hip problem for this evening’s clash against the Clarets.

Hughton told The Argus: “Yes, I think he is (undervalued). You have only got to look at the amount of games that he has played in recent seasons.

“We’ve changed the shape a little bit and he’s still been a consistent member of a midfield two or three.

“But I think it comes with the territory.

“There are players in certain positions that can be up and down that are generally going to get the headlines and I think there are always going to be players that are very much appreciated.

“I think in the game, when you speak to other managers, they all appreciate what the likes of a Dale Stephens does for the team.

“But maybe he is not a player, as with other players, that are generally going to get the headlines.

“The most important thing is his standing in the game, but more importantly his standing here.”

Stephens missed last Saturday’s 0-0 home draw against Watford after pulling out in the warm-up.

Albion are seeking their first Premier League win of 2019 in Hughton’s 200th game in charge to ease mounting fears of being dragged into the relegation dogfight with Burnley.