Brighton midfielder Dale Stephens says he's fine to cop criticism from his own supporters.

The Seagulls faithful have voiced their frustration at Stephens for not always moving the ball forward quickly.

Asked whether it bothers him, Stephens told The Argus: "No, it's part of my job.

"When a game is frantic, you probably need that calm head and I am the calm head in the team.

"Whether it is a pass backwards or sidewards, it is about keeping possession and we have to build from there."