Brighton midfielder Dale Stephens believes his team has gotten better this season.

Despite suffering a disappointing home defeat to Southampton, Stephens believes the Albion have what it takes to mix it with the elite in the Premier League.

Brighton are in 15th position, five points away from the relegation zone with a game in hand over 18th placed Cardiff.

And the Englishman hopes they can show their quality at Chelsea on Wednesday.

Stephens said to reporters: "I think we've improved, especially on last year, going away from home to the top six.

"We are obviously disappointed with Saturday so we will try and put that behind us and first and foremost get a good performance on Wednesday, and hopefully a result to follow."