ALBION already have one eye on their Premier League preparations.

Jamie Murphy played as a No.10 at Norwich on Friday at the expense of Tomer Hemed, a slight variation on the twin striker policy adopted by manager Chris Hughton for most of the Seagulls’ record-breaking season.

Hughton, asked if he is planning ahead, told The Argus: “I think you have to.

“One thing I can guarantee is any thoughts about next season won’t take one per cent from our preparations for the next game.

“But of course you have to. Pre-season changes, the recruitment process and our thoughts.”

The Premier League fixtures are unveiled on June 14 and the season starts on August 12, a week later than the Championship.

Hemed is likely to return to the starting line-up against Bristol City at the Amex on Saturday.

City, with seven sides below them, need a point to be mathematically certain of staying up after beating Barnsley 3-2 at Ashton Gate.

Anthony Knockaert is hot favourite to be named Albion’s player of the season at the club’s annual awards dinner at the Amex tonight.

The French winger has already been named Championship player of the season.