'He's in a bad way' Graham Potter explains Shane Duffy absence after Burnley victory

Duffy has not been a regular in the first XI this season following the arrival of Adam Webster and there has been speculation that Duffy could leave the club this summer.

Ben White also looks likely to return to the Amex next campaign following his successful loan spell at Leeds. White's arrival could knock Duffy further down the pecking order.

The Irish defender also had Albion fans guessing at the meaning of a Tweet he sent earlier this week, with some believing it to be a farewell message.

He wrote: "3rd successful season staying in the league proud off the boys all season working hard and learning new ways! It’s been a pleasure lads."

Duffy, 27, is contracted with Albion until 2023 and Brighton clearly have huge decisions to make at centre back this summer. Duffy omission for the 2-1 win at Burnley was explained by Potter after the match.

"He had an emergency dentist surgery," said the Albion head coach. "He had four teeth out and sliced his gum so he was in a bad way so he was unable to play and unable to travel."

After the match Duffy tweeted: "Beautiful final day win that the lads, not there today because I had to get 4 teeth out off my mouth which was nasty!

"All in all good season from everyone now looking forward to next season to see this club go forward."

Potter was also asked to comment on strong speculation linking Liverpool's Adam Lallana with a move to Brighton.

“It is just speculation and there are lots of names in the papers. People get linked at this time of year.

"With the greatest respect to everybody, I just want to speak about the guys at our club and will use the window to try and improve and to try and find the right player.

"It would be unfair for me to comment on speculation.”