Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Dale Stephens says they go into the new season knowing they belong in the Premier League.

The Seagulls kick off their second season in the Premier League against Watford at Vicarage Road next Saturday afternoon, and the midfielder insists that the team will be better for their experiences last term.

He told the club's website, “I think we've got more belief in the squad this time ahead of the new season.

“Your first season can sometimes be a bit of an unknown, but we've had a good year and confidence is high that we can improve on what we did last year.

“Personally, I feel like I'll be better this season having had the experience of playing against the top players in Europe and the world.

“It's made me a better player and I'm excited to do it again this year – we have to improve from last season and we know we belong at this level now."