By Ed Elliot, Press Association Sport
Published: 11:22 BST, 22 April 2019 | Updated: 11:22 BST, 22 April 2019
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Chris Hughton has disputed Martin Keown's suggestion that Brighton's players have 'downed tools' and are relying on results elsewhere to avoid Premier League relegation.
Pundit Keown accused Albion of lacking effort during their recent run of poor form while speaking on Sunday evening's Match of the Day 2.
The struggling Seagulls have failed to score during a five-match winless streak and sit just three points above 18th-placed Cardiff.
Chris Hughton says his players have not given up, but accepts that there has been criticism
Brighton are currently sitting just above the drop zone, three points clear of Cardiff in 18th
Asked whether he agreed with the comments of former Arsenal and England defender Keown, Albion boss Hughton said: 'No, I certainly wouldn't. As with all pundits it's their job and responsibility to say what they think, but certainly no.
'And I don't think anybody could accuse a group of players at Wolves on Saturday (a 0-0 draw) of it not meaning enough or downing tools. Absolutely that's not the case.
'We are a team of our level playing in the Premier League and up until probably the last month or so we've been in a decent enough position in the league.