Brighton midfielder James Milner insists his side have everything they need to improve their position in the Premier League table.

Going into the festive period, the Seagulls are 10th, three points shy of fifth-placed Crystal Palace.

Milner says that their form is to be expected from a team who are still in development.

“We haven’t had that consistency,” Milner told BBC Radio Sussex.

“We’ve shown it in parts of games, and in some games and not others. That’s part and parcel of being a team that’s growing, a team of young players, as well.

“How we’re coached and the ability that we have in the team and the heart that we show – all of the ingredients are there, we just need to keep pushing as a team and try to find that consistency together.”

After the visit of Sunderland on Saturday, Brighton have seven more Premier League games before the end of January.

Milner believes the festive period is an opportunity for the Seagulls to show improvement.

“This period is always critical,” Milner said. “You see the league table going into December and you see it mid to end of January and it’s always very, very different, with the amount of games you can have.

“We’re close to being a lot better. We’re not that far away.

“Although it’s been frustrating, we’re in a position in the league table where a few wins gets you right up there – where we want to be.”

Listen to James Milner speaking to BBC Radio Sussex