Albion midfielder Alexis Nicolas revealed today he expects Leon Knight to stay with the Seagulls.

Nicolas is keen for the club to reach agreement with his former Chelsea colleague over a new contract. Knight's current two-year deal expires in the summer and he wants a new three-year contract.

Manager Mark McGhee had "very productive" talks involving Knight's agent and chairman Dick Knight this week as Albion try to resolve the future of last season's top scorer.

Nicolas said: "Leon's a massive player for us. He's got great ability, tremendous skill, and he's a big part of our team.

"I am sure things will be resolved because I know he likes it here. He is happy at the club and he is a great asset. Hopefully it will all be tied up."

The goals have dried up for Knight in the Championship this season but Nicolas believes the striker's successful conversion into a left winger for the home wins against Sunderland and Millwall emphasises his value to the side.

"He has always got it in his locker to pop up out of nowhere and score," Nicolas said.

"He's been put in a different role recently and he has adapted to it really well. He's a good footballer and even if he doesn't score he still gives us so much."

Former Albion striker Ade Akinbiyi was sent-off two-and-a-half minutes into his debut for Burnley last night.

Akinbiyi came on as substitute in a 2-0 home defeat by Sunderland but saw red for a head-butt.