GRAHAM Potter has reaffirmed the importance that Tariq Lamptey has for Albion.

Lamptey started the match against West Ham from the bench, but after he entered the field of play in the second half he helped Albion turn the tide.

The 21-year-old was in top form yet again on the right-wing and even managed to assist Neal Maupay's equalising goal with a good cross from the flank.

The full-back is still managing his comeback from the hamstring injury that kept him out of action for a whole year, but since his return every time he has been on the pitch he has looked like one of Albion's best players.

The Argus: Brighton and Hove Albion manager Graham Potter at the London Stadium, credit Simon DackBrighton and Hove Albion manager Graham Potter at the London Stadium, credit Simon Dack

Potter told the Argus: "He is an important player for us, you can see his quality.

"Of course we know what he has been through in the last year or so and we was never going to start all three games this week.

"We have to be careful with him, but the idea was for him to help get back into this game.

"He is available for Saturday from the start and obviously it is nice for him to help us get the point."

The Albion boss has hinted that Lamptey will be in line for a return to the starting line-up when they take on Southampton this weekend.

The hope will be with Lamptey having more time on the pitch they will be able to win their first game in ten attempts.