Brighton star Dale Stephens believes that his side must build up their quality in the Premier League.

With the Albion close to avoiding relegation, Stephens wants to ensure they are higher up in the table next season.

But he understands that it is a slow process, especially as Brighton are not blessed with significant transfer funds compared to their rivals.

Stephens said to reporters: "It is always difficult. We are only in our second year.

"I think Bolton stayed there 11 years. We have always got to build slowly and the club have done that.

"We have improved our squad from the first season we were here.

"We know how difficult it is just to stay in this division.

"To do it long term for ten years, I think the best way to do it is to do it slowly."