Oscar Garcia has told Albion fans he still sees Will Buckley as a wideman.

But he reckons the star winger has helped Leo Ulloa to his high-flying start to the season by adopting a new role.

Buckley has been given a more central berth at times in recent matches as a stop-gap measure with the Seagulls short of specialist strikers.

Oscar admits the change has been out of necessity as he tries to ensure Ulloa does not fight a lone battle in attack.

He reckons Buckley’s efforts have helped Albion create chances.

And he believes the former Watford man can keep improving.

The head coach said: “Up front is a position where we have a lot of players missing.

“There were times when Leo looked very alone so we are trying to get players close to him. I want mobility and movement up there. I want players to create problems and doubts for the people marking them.

“Will Buckley is a player who shines more brightly when he is playing wider. But he has got qualities and he needs to keep progressing to be the player everyone expects him to be.”

Albion are expected to move for a forward when the loan window opens next week.