GRAHAM Potter expects former Newport County AFC defender Ben White to develop into a "top player" and is convinced he is ready to make the step up to the Premier League at Brighton.

Centre-back White lifted the Sky Bet Championship title with Leeds on Wednesday evening having capped a standout season-long loan move with a superb opening goal in a 4-0 win over Charlton.

Fans of the promoted West Yorkshire club are eager for the ever-present 22-year-old to be recruited on a permanent deal.

That White has been such a hit won't come as a surprise to County fans after a stunning 2017/18 campaign on loan at Rodney Parade, which saw him win the Argus Player of the Year award that is voted for by readers.

He helped the Exiles to an FA Cup win against Leeds at Rodney Parade and draw with Tottenham, making 51 appearances at the heart of Michael Flynn's defence.

South Wales Argus:

His Albion boss is excited about White's potential ahead of integrating him into his first-team squad at the Amex Stadium.

Asked if White is ready for top-flight action, Potter replied: "Absolutely, 100 per cent."

He continued: "He's our player, he's got a long contract with us. I have known Ben for a while, I have been aware of him, wanted to try and sign him when we were at Swansea.

"I know about his qualities. He's a fantastic player. He's done brilliantly at Leeds and helped them get promotion - that's fantastic for them, fantastic for him - but he's our player and we're looking forward to working with him.

"He complements us really well. He's got attributes that are really, really useful and he's going to be a top player."

South Wales Argus:

While Leeds were lifting the Championship trophy at Elland Road, Potter's former club Swansea remarkably sneaked into the play-offs.

The Swans produced a six-goal swing in goal difference to overhaul Nottingham Forest and face a two-legged tie with Brentford for a place at Wembley.

Potter, who had steadfastly refused to toast Albion's Premier League survival before it was guaranteed following Monday evening's draw with Newcastle, believes the drama in the division below shows the importance of not taking anything for granted and hopes to be facing Swansea next term.

He said: "Wow - it was incredible, wasn't it?

"It just goes to show, until you are mathematically secure, you've just got to keep going.

"Unbelievable drama and of course I am really, really happy for my ex-club, fantastic that they are in the play-offs and I wish them well.

"I had a fantastic year there: great people, great lads, wonderful club. I will be rooting for them in the play-offs, for sure."