Brighton boss Gus Poyet is desperately hoping to keep midfield stalwart Vicente Rodriguez fit for the rest of the season.

The former Spain international has been plagued by niggling injuries since his surprise arrival on the south coast from Valencia in August.

But, making his first appearance since October as a substitute against Leicester on Saturday, the 30-year-old produced a moment of class to set up Will Buckley for Brighton's last-minute winner.

"There were two very organised teams but Vicente showed a bit of real quality," said Poyet.

"In those sorts of games if you are organised, defend well, are patient and have someone like Vicente to step up and help, then you will win plenty.

"That is exactly why we have him and put him on the bench when fit."