Former Bournemouth captain makes Premier League admission about Brighton and Hove Albion

The Seagulls’ attention reverts back to league action after the last-minute FA Cup exit to Leicester City on Wednesday evening.

Graham Potter’s side remain in the relegation picture but have gained breathing space in recent weeks following wins against Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool.

The advantage over the bottom three stands at 10 points and Francis is tipping Albion, who are unbeaten in their previous five league games, to survive.

“A few weeks ago, I would have said they would be worrying, their lack of goals was a problem,” he told Sky Sports’ Football Show.

"Yes, they were creating chances and playing excellent football, I think they do play really good, attractive football but not putting the ball in the back of the net is always going to be an issue of course to stay in the Premier League but recently, they look like they can do everything – they can score goals, keep clean sheets – they’re solid defensively at times.

"I think they will have enough. The bottom three now is where the challenge is going to be for any of those if they can put a run of results together to try and get out of it but Brighton, I think they’ll win more games, I think they’re confident right now – I think they’re in a good position.”