But Graham Potter, who celebrated his third anniversary in charge on his 47th birthday today, says it is already his best season with the club. The Seagulls, currently tenth, would claim their highest-ever finishing position with a point at home to West Ham on Sunday (4pm). They are looking to better the 13th place secured under Mike Bailey in 1981-82. A draw against the Hammers will actually ensure a top-ten finish unless Brentford win heavily at home to Leeds. Victory could take the Seagulls as high as eighth, although ninth, behind Leicester and ahead of Wolves, looks more likely based on the last-day fixtures.
Graham Potter said: “I’ve only been here three years. It has been the best year that we’ve had in my three years. I wouldn’t want to disrespect anybody’s memories or anybody’s efforts past that time. The points tally, where we finished in the league, we’ll obviously see after the game. We’ve been competitive in a lot of the games, taking some really impressive results. Performances, I think, have improved. Young players have taken steps. So there’s lots of positives, I think. But this club has got a history as well. I don’t want to disrespect that.”