Brighton went desperately close to achieving promotion to the Premier League last season after a superb campaign for Chris Hughton's side.

After suffering a disappointing draw with Middlesbrough on the final day, which saw their opponents secure their promotion, Brighton failed in the play-offs and they will now prepare for another promotion push in 2016/17.

While new additions are expected this summer, one of the club's biggest tasks will be keeping hold of some of their stars.

Hughton had important players in all areas of the pitch and keeping the majority of that squad together will be key for their anticipated promotion push next season.

The importance of some of their key players was highlighted in the play-offs when injury and suspension meant that they had a depleted squad in their games against Sheffield Wednesday.

Keeping their key players fit and in form will be essential if Brighton are to better their achievements of last season.

Here are the FOUR most key players for Brighton in the 2016/17 season!

 

Dale Stephens

27-year-old Stephens had arguably his best season last term as he showed himself a crucial lynchpin in the middle of Brighton's midfield, and he was sorely missed in the play-offs.

His suspension left a big gap in the Seagulls' play as he links the play between defence in attack alongside his partner Beram Kayal.

If Stephens can continue his impressive form from last season, he will be one of Chris Hughton's most important players next season; and he will hope to guide his side to promotion.

Lewis Dunk

Lewis Dunk has long been viewed as a promising centre-back with the potential to go quite far in the game, and last season he really showed his quality and became an important part of Brighton's side.

The 24-year-old has already been linked with a summer move to the Premier League but with Hughton can keep him at the AMEX, he will be crucial for his side next season.

Dunk is one of the best central defenders in the Championship and his form will make the difference in a lot of games in the 2016/17 campaign.

Anthony Knockaert

One criticism of Brighton before January was the lack of goals compared to their promotion rivals, but the signing of the former Leicester winger changed that.

Not only did he score 5 goals in his 19 games for the club, but he also provided 7 assists for his team mates and he gave the Seagulls that little bit of extra quality in the final third that saw them come so close to the Premier League.

Keeping Knockaert in form and fit next season will be crucial for the Seagulls as he is arguably their most creative player.

Bruno

Despite his advancing years, the 35-year-old right-back is still a crucial player for Brighton and he uses his experience and knowhow to have an impact at both ends of the field.

His contribution for the Seagulls didn't go unnoticed either as he was named in the PFA's Championship Team of the Year and was seen by many as one of the best right-backs in the division.

Although he only claimed one goal and two assists last season, his presence in the final third was just as crucial as it was at the back.