Graham Potter highlights deep versatility of Ben White and Leeds United respect after Brighton triumph

BRIGHTON boss Graham Potter highlighted an even deeper versatility to Ben White after his display in helping the Seagulls to victory on his Elland Road return.

Centre-back White played every single minute of every Leeds league game during a season-long loan from Brighton in the 2019-20 Championship campaign which saw United promoted as champions.

Leeds then made White their top transfer target of the summer but Brighton continually insisted that the former Whites loanee was not for sale and rebuffed an offer as high as £25m plus add-ons.

White proved a rock in the United defence during his loan spell but also played in the holding midfield role when required and the 23-year-old played in the middle of the park upon Saturday's Elland Road return which resulted in a 1-0 Brighton victory.

IMPRESSIVE: Brighton's former Leeds United loanee Ben White challenges Raphinha during Saturday's 1-0 triumph at Elland Road. Picture by Bruce Rollinson.placeholder image
IMPRESSIVE: Brighton's former Leeds United loanee Ben White challenges Raphinha during Saturday's 1-0 triumph at Elland Road. Picture by Bruce Rollinson.

The Brighton ace also played in centre midfield in Wednesday night's 1-0 loss at Manchester City which came on the back an outing at right back in last weekend's third round FA Cup clash at Newport County.

"I think Ben's been playing well, I think he did well against Man City, against Newport at right-back on a difficult pitch," said Potter.

"I'm sure he's delighted to go back to his old team, where he had such a good time.

"He speaks with nothing but respect for Leeds United Football Club and how they've helped him and his career.

"It's nice for him to come back and get three points."

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Thank you Laura Collins

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