Roberto De Zerbi expects Joao Pedro to become a wanted man as he grows as a versatile and hard-working forward player.

The Brazil international calmly converted two penalties and produced some superb, unselfish play to tee up Jack Hinshelwood for his goal in the 4-2 win over Tottenham.

POST-MATCH AUDIO FROM BRIGHTON'S 4-2 WIN OVER TOTTENHAM

He operated wide of and behind Danny Welbeck – whose own movement took him into wide areas at times and caused problems.

But all that did not fully explain why De Zerbi so enjoyed Joao Pedro’s performance.

The Albion boss said: “Today he played another incredible game.

“I am really pleased about his improvement in mentality, in attitude, in defensive space, incredible.

“He defended for 90 minutes like a centre-back in terms of mentality.

“He is becoming, I think, a top player. I hope in the next year to work with him but I think it will be very tough.”