STEVEN ALZATE has been told he will end up playing in central midfield.

But the versatile youngster can benefit from his varying roles for the Seagulls.

London-born Alzate is likely to face West Ham back in the capital on Saturday.

But he is as likely to be used out wide as in his preferred role in the middle of the park.

Alzate started the last two matches at right-back with head coach Graham Potter searching for “some composure in the wide areas”.

But he swapped positions with Dale Stephens and went central as Albion chased the game at Bournemouth in the second half.

Potter said: “He will end up in the centre of the pitch but some of his quality is incredible.

“He can play anywhere. He is going to be a top player.”

Alzate has played wide on both flanks, including a Premier League debut at left wing-back at Newcastle.

He told Albion’s website this week: “I’m a midfielder, but the manager knows I can play in a lot of positions.

“As long as I am playing, I will play anywhere but in the long run I’d like to be in as a midfielder.

“But I don’t mind going even at left back - I will always do a shift for the team.”

Potter says there will be fringe benefits from playing different roles.

He told The Argus: “Hopefully he sees the game from lots of positions and his pictures are wider.

“His receiving skills are really good. He can receive under pressure.”

Potter can see a more amusing side of Alzate’s willingness to receive possession in almost any circumstance.

He added with a laugh: “He needs to relax a bit more on the ball, doesn’t he?

“I’m panicking on the side and he looks like he is just kicking around with his mates.

“But that is a great quality to have.”