BOSS Chris Hughton believes a sustained period for Alireza Jahanbakhsh will help Albion's record buy produce his best form.

Hughton was pleased with aspects of Jahanbakhsh's contribution as a winger to the Seagulls' FA Cup fifth round victory over Derby.

It was the £17 million Iran international's second FA Cup start since returning from Asian Cup duty for his country.

Hughton told The Argus: "I think in and out he showed some really good qualities.

"He is back with us now and I think what he needs is a sustained period of being with us and training with us, with no interruptions, and he will be better for that."

Jahanbakhsh, used as a number ten in the fourth round replay at West Brom, has played only 24 minutes in the Premier League since early November, when he suffered a hamstring injury at Everton.

Albion won three of his first four starts, but the injury was followed by a setback during his recovery and the Asian Cup in the United Arab Emirates, in which he helped Iran reach the semi-finals.

Meanwhile, Norwegian teenager Leo Ostigard, a surprise inclusion on the bench against Derby with Albion hit by injuries and suspension, has suggested he could go out on loan next season.

The 19-year-old summer signing from Molde, who has made eight league appearances for the under-23s, told Norway's TV2: "I think they want me in Brighton now, but we'll see what's going on in August.

"Then maybe it will be a loan (move) to the Championship or other clubs in England or maybe elsewhere. It's a bit uncertain."

Holders Albion face Eastbourne Town at the Saffrons tonight in the quarter-finals of the Sussex Senior Cup. Bognor await the winners.