Brighton: Seagulls will bounce back from Hyypia exit, says Jones

Jones (right) was Hyypia's assistant during the Finn's time at Brighton

Brighton caretaker boss Nathan Jones says the club will survive their current crisis following Monday's departure of manager Sami Hyypia.

Hyypia quit after one win in 18 league games and Jones told BBC Sussex: "I know we'll come through it.

"It's a club that's always come through tough times. We need a reaction, we need the players to step up."

BBC Three Counties reports that Brighton have approached MK Dons to speak to Karl Robinson about the job.

Seagulls chairman Tony Bloom arrives back from Australia on Wednesday to begin the process of replacing Hyypia.

Former Crystal Palace and Stoke manager Tony Pulis, ex-Spurs head coach Tim Sherwood and Norwich's old boss Chris Hughton are other names being linked with the job at the Amex Stadium.

With the transfer window opening on 1 January, it is expected Brighton would have a new manager in place for that period.

Jones, who was assistant to Hyypia, said the 41-year-old's departure was not a "massive surprise", but, with the club in the relegation zone, they have to look forward.

"He was under a lot of pressure," Jones said.

"He was hard working and dignified and I understand why he has done it - I wish him all the best."

Former Liverpool and Finland defender Hyypia was appointed in June on a three-year deal but won just six out of 26 games in charge.

Defender Inigo Calderon says the players are partly to blame for the departure of Hyypia.

"Of course," Calderon said. "He decided to leave and that is a bad thing because it means we are doing badly.

"He was a top man who tried to do his best for the players.

"He will be happy if we can get some success this season because he has been part of the team.

"So we have to do it for us first, for the club, and as a thanks for him - we have to keep fighting."