Israeli midfielder Beram Kayal has signed a new two-and-a-half-year contract with high-flying Brighton.

Kayal, 28, is currently sidelined with an ankle injury but he has made a big impact since joining the Seagulls from Celtic in 2015.

He has scored three goals in 72 appearances for a team pushing for the Premier League.

Brighton boss Chris Hughton said: “It is important to us that we keep hold of our key players, and we are absolutely delighted that Beram has signed his new contract.

"He thoroughly deserves it; he had an outstanding season for us last year, and was a key player for us. He is a great professional, and an important member of the team, on and off the pitch.

"He is making very good progress with his rehabilitation, and now we look forward to welcoming him back to the squad soon, knowing he will have a significant role to play."