Paddy McCourt is making a strong case to play a key role for Albion.

But colleague Aaron Hughes admits he did not get the chance he craved to shine on the international stage.

McCourt is pushing for a part in Albion's next blast of three games in eight days, starting at home to Middlesbrough on Saturday.

He is with Northern Ireland as they prepare to face Greece in Athens tomorrow.

Seagulls defender Hughes has been impressed by what he has seen of the former Barnsley and Celtic playmaker on a daily basis after they both moved to the Amex.

He said: “I see Paddy day to day now being at Brighton.

“I see his quality every single training session. We all know what he can do.

“Paddy brings that flair, that quality.”

Albion and Irish fans are keen to see more of a McCourt after a slow start to the season.

But he had little chance to shine after being sent on for the final quarter of his nation's 2-0 win over the Faroe Islands on Saturday.

Hughes admitted: “It was a bit difficult when he came on. The game was a bit flat.

“We were just looking for something to happen.

“In the last 20 minutes nothing was really happening for anyone.

“It was just a matter of seeing the game out.”