Roberto De Zerbi has revealed his vision for Albion’s near future - as his side battle through injuries, suspensions and a demanding schedule.

The Seagulls are eighth in the table after beating Brentford on Wednesday and ahead of a visit from Burnley.

De Zerbi believes there is more to come from some of his more recent arrivals as they look to follow the club’s best ever season last term.

He gave Carlos Baleba a deeper midfield role against the Bees and enjoyed watching Igor at centre-back alongside Jan Paul van Hecke in the absence of suspended Lewis Dunk.

De Zerbi said: “This season, I think the first XI is not as good as last season. In the future, it can be better.

“At the moment, Baleba is not (Moises) Caicedo yet.

“Igor, in terms of knowledge of the play, is not (Levi) Colwill – yet. He can become, yes, but at the moment, no.

“For it, I think we are doing better than last season.

“Last season, we reached the Europa League, we reached the big target.

“But this season we have 25 points in 15 games.

“We have ten points in the Europa League in five games.

“We are fighting after losing three important players and only one team lost three important players – Brighton.”