In the Brighton fanbase, we share a lot of different opinions on one Diego Gomez. Is he actually important? What does he actually do? Are his critics valid?

One way or another, you cannot even begin to question Diego's work rate, and commitment to the Albion. Which, makes him very valuable with setting standards in this Brighton team.

As @marshalreports (twitter) stated, Gomez is much more effective in games where Brighton either have less of the ball, or are prepared to have a lot of situations where can can trap opposition in their half. 

The Paraguayan international is a pressing machine, and is crucial to our pressure on the opponents backline, specifically fullbacks, or wide players. 

Gomez is also a strong winner of duels, reacts well to second balls and when Hurzeler's side loses the ball, he is first on the scene.

This can explain very well why Gomez has been a consistent asset to the German's squad, despite questionable performances at times.

Gomez also has some weirdly good box movement, which has allowed him to pick up a couple of goals here and there, particularly last season. 

We all know about his ball striking ability, which we all saw against Palace yesterday! But also against Barnsley, Tottenham and Nottingham Forest too. 

Fabian Hurzeler has a preference to players with a good attitude and mentality, as most coaches do, over talented players who apply themselves less, and don't buy into principles as much. 

Gomez trains and applies himself exceptionally well, hence is in the starting XI every week. Brighton, with a younger, less experienced squad, need players like this.

The 23 year-old might not be a leader in personality, but he drives players to be better with his own levels. And credit to the manager, who has stayed consistent with his standards of training too.

I really hope so. Whilst yes, Diego is limited in a possession heavy team in some ways, he is invaluable off the ball, with pressing, duels, shutting down opposition, high intensity sprinting, the list goes on.

Gomez is so good at getting 'controllables' right, and this is another reason why he is a mainstay in Hurzeler's starting team.

Every successful team in the Premier League needs a Diego Gomez. Make sure to value him.