Brighton boss Gus Poyet fears losing Liam Bridcutt after his performance in victory over Newcastle United.

It was the industry and combativeness of Bridcutt that secured the man of the match award for the 23-year-old midfielder.

"Yes I am worried by Liam's performance. Other clubs can ask about him because it's part of the game," the Seagulls manager said.

"If I was coach of Real (Madrid) I would take him because he deserves to go to the highest level.

"As a holding midfielder, there is no better player in the division. So he is quite expensive.

"The best thing about Liam is that he understands me to an incredible level. The way he understands what I want from him is spectacular."