ALBION boss Chris Hughton is hoping he still has Chris O’Grady when the January transfer window closes.

O’Grady celebrated his 29th birthday by getting on the scoresheet for the second round running in yesterday’s 3-2 exit from the FA Cup against Arsenal at the Amex.

Sheffield United, where O’Grady was on loan before Christmas, want to buy him but Hughton, who also started the centre-forward in last week’s home win against Ipswich, believes he could now stay on the South Coast.

Hughton told The Argus: “I hope so. I think most people are aware there is interest in him, but this is a player that came here and had a difficult time, went away on loan and has been excellent for us since he came back.

“I must admit I’m still getting to know him. I knew him from his time at Barnsley, I don’t know him as much from his time here.

“He certainly couldn’t have done any more than he has in the last two games. He is no different to any other player, you want to be playing and involved, and if you are you are generally happier. At the moment I think he’s in a nice place.”

Sheffield United, according to sources in Yorkshire, are understood to have an agreement in principle to sign O’Grady which would eventually enable Albion to recoup the £500,000 fee they paid Barnsley in the summer.

The Seagulls are unlikely to proceed unless another striker is in place to accompany the loan capture of the Cup-tied Leon Best from Blackburn Rovers for the rest of the season before the window shuts on February 2.

O’Grady, whose other goal in 17 appearances for Albion was in the FA Cup third round win at Brentford, said: “I’m just getting a chance to play, I’m taking it and doing my very best for however long I am wanted here.

“I am being professional and doing my very best. Since I’ve been back there is a freshness and a chance to get involved and contribute. That’s all I’ve ever really wanted.”