Chris Hughton: Knockaert will return from ban to punish Palace

The French winger, has completed a three-match ban that saw him out of action for almost five weeks. The 26-year-old was handed a red card against Everton last month for a tackle on Leighton Baines.

Knockaert is now eligible for selection again and is reportedly eager to return to the fold. The timing is somewhat impeccable for Brighton, as they will be missing Davy Propper who picked up his own three-match ban. 

Hughton said: ''It's a big boost for us because of the ability he [Knockaert] has. It's been frustrating for him, and for us, but he's trained harder in this period of about five weeks since the Everton game.''

The 'Seagulls' boss added: ''I would have no hesitation in playing Anthony is any game. If anything you've got somebody who is desperate to get back in to play and have an effect.''

Knockaert will be available for the clash against Crystal Palace on Saturday, with 13th placed Brighton hoping to bid to boost their chances of relegation survival.