SHANE Duffy has been praised for his performances this season by teammate Dan Burn.

The Irish defender has emerged as a vital part of Graham Potter's first-team plans this season, despite it looking like his time at the club was over not that long ago.

Duffy spent last season on loan in Scotland with Glasgow giants Celtic, however, the loan move was not a complete success as he only played 27 times during the whole season.

Since returning to Albion, the 29-year-old has proved he can still be important for the side and has been in good form this season.

The Argus: Shane Duffy celebrates a goal for Brighton and Hove AlbionShane Duffy celebrates a goal for Brighton and Hove Albion

Dan Burn has defended Duffy's yellow card against Southampton, which means he will miss the game against Tottenham on Sunday.

He said: “It's tough. I think that as a centre half in the Premier League, with the players that you're coming up against, you will pick up bookings, it's just natural, especially the way the game is played.

“Shane has been amazing this season.

“He’s already said he had a tough time last season when he was away and I've never been so happy for anyone when he scored that goal against Watford – I was buzzing for him.

“He was the captain on Saturday as well, which just shows how much he's managed to turn it around.”

Duffy has played 14 times for Albion this season, scoring one goal and helping the team keep four clean sheets in that time.