But he accepts a challenge still lies ahead to secure a top-seven spot. Veltman knows the ins and outs of European competition from his days with Ajax. He went on as sub in the semi-final against Manchester United. Asked whether the tie can benefit the Seagulls squad,
Joel Veltman said: “Yes, 100% it can be a good prep for next season if we make it to the European places. The environment, everything is good experience for the younger lads. We have the qualities to end in the top seven. I think we deserve it but we need to work hard for that. It’s a good thing, I would say, that we have a game quite quickly. It’s another big game. We’re doing well in the Premier League so we need to focus on that, we have to focus on that because we’re out of the FA Cup. But I think we’re in a good place in the Premier League, we’re doing well, so time to focus for European places now.”
Veltman’s former boss was impressed by Albion in the 120-minute stalemate.
Joel Veltman said: “Erik ten Hag, I spoke to him, he gave a lot of compliments – how we played, where we are now in the Premier League and how far we came in the FA Cup, so lots of compliments. For now, I don’t care because I wanted to be in the final. But I think we’re in a good place.”
Veltman left the recent win at Chelsea holding his thigh but was a surprise inclusion in the Seagulls’ 20 at Wembley. He went on during the second half in a bid to keep Marcus Rashford at bay.
Joel Veltman said: “It was kind of a surprise for me as well. We did some scans and it was not too bad so I was always thinking maybe I could make it. I trained (on Saturday), which was all good and I said to the gaffer ‘I’m ready to not start but, when you need, I’ll be ready’. So I’m happy. I was not happy with the extra-time, to be honest! But that’s fine.”
