Following a disappointing play-off defeat in the semi-final last season, Brighton have recovered in perfect fashion as they currently occupy a position in the automatic promotion places.

The 2016/17 season has been a highly successful one so far for the Seagulls and there has been much to celebrate for Chris Hughton's side.

Hughton's success at the club cannot be understated as he took on a very difficult job sat just outside of the relegation places, but two years later his side sit in a very nice position.

Brighton have been brilliant in all areas this season. Their 15 clean sheets and 26 goals this season have led to them becoming the second best defensive side in the division.

They haven't struggled at the other end of the pitch either as they arguably have one of the strongest strike forces in the division with Glenn Murray, Sam Baldock, Tomer Hemed and new addition Chuba Akpom.

Over the next few pages, FLW writer Tom Rawcliffe sums up Albion's campaign so far with the biggest highs and lows...

HIGH: Phenomenal run

To earn a place near the top of the table in any division all around the world, top form is vital and Brighton have epitomised that this season.

The Seagulls went unbeaten from the middle of September to the start of 2017 in a run which saw them go 19 Championship matches without a defeat.

Within that run, they dropped just four points and the Albion flew all the way up to the summit of the table as they edged Newcastle to top spot.

HIGH: The signing of Glenn Murray

At the beginning of the season, manager Chris Hughton showed his side's intent for the upcoming season by confirming a loan deal for their former striker Glenn Murray.

The signing certainly hasn't backfired as his 16 goals this season has made him one of the top scorers in England's second tier.

Hughton and his staff even managed to secure Murray on a permanent basis in the January window and everybody connected with the club will be hoping that he will fire their side up to the top flight.

LOW: Consecutive 3-1 defeats

Brighton were drawn against non-league FA Cup heroes Lincoln City in the fourth round of the competition and were blown away by their opposition.

The 3-1 defeat to the Imps was a huge shock to all but the Albion gave credit to their opposition and began to focus on their progression in the league.

However, they didn't follow the loss in normal Brighton fashion as they suffered another 3-1 defeat at the hands of fellow promotion rivals Huddersfield.

The Seagulls never really got started that night and fans feared what effect that could have on their immediate form.

LOW: The gap is closing

To be in the automatic promotion places this season is an incredible place to be. However, the Seagulls now find themselves looking over their shoulders.

It was only the end of January that Brighton were nine points clear of third place but with the incredible recent form of Huddersfield Town, the gap between the two have been closed to just a single point.

The next two matches could be crucial for Brighton as they meet promotion rivals Reading and Newcastle United in two matches which could determine their place come the end of the season.

Brighton fans... Do you agree that these 2 highs and these 2 lows have shaped your season? Let us know what you think in the comments section below!