Albion ace Anthony Knockaert has urged Joey Barton to stamp out his inflammatory tactics and concentrate on playing.

The controversial Burnley midfielder was involved in several clashes with Beram Kayal in the 2-2 draw at the Amex.

Two different flashpoints prompted widespread accusations that Barton stamped on and elbowed the Seagulls’ Israeli star, although referee Craig Pawson ruled neither was worthy of any punishment.

French winger Knockaert declared: “I’m not going to say some names but always when you play Burnley and there is Joey Barton on the pitch, there is an argument.

“I think he shouldn’t do this because he is a great player. It would be better if he didn’t do this but that’s how he is clever.

“He tries to argue with everyone and make people crazy. Twice he was kicking (Kayal). Maybe he should have been sent-off but he’s Joey Barton so maybe he has got more credit than other players.

“Maybe he did it all his career and made some people crazy and they are out of the game.”

Barton used social media to hit back after the match at his accusers, who included Match Of The Day commentator Steve Wilson.

He said the stamp was an accident and tweeted: “Remember folks it’s a contact sport. This is not crown green bowls.”

Knockaert, who celebrated his return to the starting line-up with a goal and assist, believes Albion demonstrated their Premier League credentials against the Championship leaders.

He said: “We have the level to play in the Premier League. There are some great players in this team and I feel really good in this team.

“We showed we need to go into the Premier League. There is no chance we stay in the Championship.

“We will do everything and the most important is to have no regrets at the end of the season.”

Michael Keane’s injury time header, shortly after he had another header which crossed the line but was not awarded, kept Albion four points adrift of Burnley and prevented them leapfrogging Middlesbrough back into second.