Brighton: Liam Bridcutt eager for Crystal Palace play-off matches

Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Liam Bridcutt says the squad cannot wait for their Championship play-off semi-final.

Albion play the first leg of their tie with rivals Crystal Palace on Friday.

He told BBC Sussex: "This week is probably the longest week we have had of training but we are all excited. We have wanted to get into the play-offs from the start of the season.

"We knew we would come up against tough opposition. It was just the luck of the draw we got Palace and a local derby."

He added: "We know we have got to work hard and go again.

"Most of the boys would play the game now if we could."

The Seagulls, who finished fourth in the Championship table, travel to Selhurst Park on Friday evening with the second leg being played at the Amex Stadium on Monday night.

Bridcutt, who joined Brighton on a free transfer in August 2010, had a trial with the south London club three years ago but was not offered a deal by then-Eagles manager George Burley.

"I had a few games on trial there," the 24-year-old said.

"It wasn't the club for me and they didn't think I was the player for them. Brighton is the club for me.

"If you look at how far we have come, from League One to fighting for a place in the Premier League, the club is going in the right direction and that is what I want.

"I want to be at a club that is going to the top and I think Brighton is one of those."

Bridcutt, who made his international debut for Scotland in March, was named as Brighton's player of the season on Tuesday night.

It is the second year in a row the former Chelsea trainee has won the vote by fans, making him the first player to retain the award since Albion legend Bobby Zamora in 2002.

"It was very unexpected," Bridcutt said.

"If you look at the players that are here now, to win it over some of those top-class Premier League and international players and to win it again is a great achievement for me.

"When you are playing week-in, week-out like I am it makes you a lot happier.

"I've had great support from my girlfriend, even when I'm moaning at her after bad games."