Norwich City boss Chris Hughton has explained why he allowed Andrew Crofts to move to Brighton.

Hughton admitted he was unable to guarantee Crofts regular football after the midfielder had slipped down the pecking order during City's successful Premier League campaign.

"I think it is a good move perhaps for both the player and the club," he told the Pink 'Un. "He was very restricted in the number of games he played last season. He is the type of player who wants to be playing week in, week out.

"Although it wasn't in my period of time here I think we would like to thank him for the service he gave this club over the last couple of seasons.

"He served us very well, in both promotion seasons, but that is one that has moved on now and we wish him all the best but we have to concentrate very much on what we are trying to do now in the future."