Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Steve Cooper reveals deep interest in managing Nottingham Forest amid Brighton links #NFFC #BHAFC
Nottingham Forest head coach Steve Cooper is reportedly on Brighton and Hove Albion’s…
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Interim manager Andrew Crofts reveals full focus on Brighton first team players after Potter leaves #BHAFC
Albion’s interim head coach Andrew Crofts will have his full focus on the club and players following the departure of Graham Potter to Chelsea.
Crofts will have his first press conference tomorrow morning ahead of Albion’s trip to Bournemouth on Saturday.
Crofts, a Chelsea youth product, played for Albion in two spells and made the move to become Albion U23 head coach in June 2021.
From left, Shannon Ruth, Nick Stanley, Andrew Crofts and Adam Lallana. Picture fromBHAFC/Paul Hazlewood
The 38-year-old said on Albion's website: "At the moment all I am thinking about is the group and what the group need over the next few days.
"I'm proud and excited, I’ve been associated with the football club for such a long period of time over different spells, but it’s not about me, it’s about what the club needs and what the players need.
"The main focus is going to Bournemouth, to stay in the moment that they’re in as a group, to fight as hard as we can to get more points on the board and with what I have seen this season, they’re in such a good place, such confidence, you can see they’re really enjoying their football and looking forward to the next game.
"They know where they’re at and what they’ve had to do to get to that point, so it’s very much a case of keeping it the same as what they’ve been doing, we don’t need to change anything.
It has been a rollercoaster week for Albion who beat Leicester on Sunday. Picture from PA
"We just have to help drive what they’ve been doing. They’ve worked so hard as a group to get to where they are now, it’s just a case of helping them in any way we can."
Crofts, who took first-team training this morning, added, "The lads were great, the energy was really good.
"You know there is going to be disappointment with Graham and the staff leaving the club, because of the relationships they’ve built up. But we’ve spoken about it and the boys were straight to work on the training pitch and because they’re so professional they couldn’t wait to train.
"The energy and intensity was really good, it was a really positive morning in terms of the work we got done on the grass."
Graham Potter is the new Chelsea manager. Picture from PA
He will be assisted by his under-21 colleague Shannon Ruth, set play coach Nick Stanley, Adam Lallana and assistant goalkeeping coach Jack Stern.
"I spoke to Adam, he’s been outstanding in terms of speaking about what the boys need. He knows the dressing room inside out because he’s been a massive driver in getting the group to where they are now.
"Not only is he a top player and person, but he’s going to be massive for the club in the next few days, I can’t thank him enough. We’re looking forward to the challenge. Hopefully it will be an exciting couple of days."
He also admitted he was not surprised to see Graham Potter attracting the interest he did from Chelsea.
"It’s a reflection of him to see where he has taken the club from, to where we are now, that has generated interest from big clubs.
"Since he’s come into the building, what he has created with the staff, the players and everyone has been unique. It just gives the club such a good platform to build on.
"On behalf of everyone at the club we wish him all the best in his next chapter alongside the members of staff that will be joining him there."
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Brighton’s Graham Potter wants attacking options within team including Danny Welbeck and not a central striker #BHAFC
But they were unwilling to go for someone who did not fit the bill in all aspects.
The Seagulls go into the next 13 games with Danny Welbeck their one specialist centre-forward with Premier League experience.
They have strikers in Deniz Undav and teenager Even Ferguson as well as several attacking players.
Graham Potter is aware the talk about him needing another striker resurfaced in the later stages of the summer window.
Just to make sure, he was reminded at his press conference yesterday staged in the build-up to the Leicester game.
He has gone on the record saying that one type of player he might like to add would be a frontman with similar profile to Welbeck.
Asked whether Albion had looked for one, he replied: “We looked, we were aware of the options but at the same time everything needs to align and it has to be right for the club.
“Sometimes it happens and sometimes it doesn’t.
“But we have different options, different variety.
“Danny’s in a really good place, probably as well as he’s played with us, so I’m excited for him.
“The window is the window, you can have ideas but you have to do the right thing for the club and sometimes doing nothing is the right thing as well.”
Potter is confident his side have enough goals in them to score one more than the opponent, providing they get things right at the back as well.
Pascal Gross has netted three times so far and had a couple more good chances.
Solly March has not been short of opportunities while Leandro Trossard is already off the mark.
The side have also forced two penalties, both put away by Alexis Mac Allister.
Potter’s confirmation that Albion looked for a striker showed he is fully aware of areas where the group can be improved.
But he said: “Rather than wait for that 20-goal striker to come along, it’s probably better that the team does better and attacks better, creates more chances and other players from other areas of the pitch score because that’s something we can control.
“Alexis has chipped in, Pascal has chipped in, we’ve got others who can do that as well.
“Solly’s been really close, Leo can score.
“So we’ve got options and we’ve got players that can do that, it’s just a case of keep working with the boys.”
He added: “I like the group, I like the team.
“Good togetherness and good competition, good options and good variety.
“We have to keep working now.
“I won’t be the first manager to say I’m happy the window is shut, I’m sure.
“But thankfully 13 games and then it’s open again so I don’t have to wait long, do I?”
That last bit was said with a laugh but the belief in his squad is very serious.
Undav needs to play a big part in that, not least since Neal Maupay left.
The German got off the mark with a calm finish in the Carabao Cup win at Forest Green.
He faces the challenge of getting up to the physical, mental and technical demands of the Prem and little has been seen of him so far.
But we have seen he get into decent areas, even if he was clearly offside when he hit the post in the defeat by Fulham in midweek.
Still, it is very early days and his chance is likely to come.
Potter said: “He’s a different profile to Danny, different attributes.
“We’re getting to know him and him us.
“He probably has to be a little bit patient at the moment but that’s to be expected because the team is doing well.
“Apart from the other night, we’ve been on a good run.
“But we understand his quality and there will come a time when we need those qualities and that’s when he needs to show he’s ready, and he will be.
“He’s fighting every day and we’re happy with him.”
Potter said it was never a temptation to spend money in the transfer window as big fees rolled in.
A player would only be brought in if he – and all elements of the deal – were just right.
It is clear Albion do not necessarily disagree with those calling for another striker to be signed.
But they remain more positive about what they already have than some observers appear to be.
Potter said: “I like the group, I like the different qualities we have, the different personalities we have.
“People make assessments now but really the proof is in the pudding, to be honest.
“People ask how good your window has been, how much money you’ve spent or so-called names you bring in, but actually it’s about whether they help the team function better and we won’t know that until nine months’ time.
“In terms of how I would assess the group, it is more about how it functions together, how the personalities are mixing together, how training is every day – and the initial signs are really positive.
“Now it’s a case of work. The window’s shut for that long period of 13 matches and then we look forward to the next round of transfer questions!”
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Graham Potter says Steven Alzate will battle for Brighton place and admires Billy Gilmour #BHAFC
Steven Alzate has been backed to shrug off the disappointment of seeing a potential loan deal timed out.
The midfielder was expected to sign for West Brom but the deal, which only emerged late on, did not beat Thursday night’s transfer deadline.
Alzate has struggled for playing time and midfield competition has now been increased with Billy Gilmour on board.
The Colombia international seized his opportunity to impress in the Carabao Cup, scoring at Forest Green and generally performing well.
Albion head coach Graham Potter said: “It’s part of football. Unfortunately sometimes these things happen on a deadline day.
“There was an option for him but we weren’t kicking him out the door either. It could have gone either way.
“He’s a player we know, a player we like so he will be on the squad and he will be part of our group and then he will be competing for a place.”
Alzate could still have options to move to Europe.
Asked whether he had been keen to join the Baggies, Potter said: “I think he was quite keen to do either, to be honest.
“The opportunity to play regular football was something to be considered as well.
“That’s why he made the consideration and the decision.
“But if it doesn’t happen, it doesn’t happen. That’s life.”
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Fulham manager Marco Silva praises his team after win against Brighton #FulhamFC #BHAFC
Fulham manager Marco Silva praised his team for the way they controlled proceedings against an excellent Brighton & Hove Albion outfit.
Graham Potter’s side had taken 10 points from a possible 12 heading into Tuesday’s encounter, but left Craven Cottage with a 2-1 defeat.
“A great win for us, a great result, a great three points against a really tough team to play against and to beat,” was Silva’s analysis.
“The way they started the season, they deserved the points, the way they controlled all the teams they played against, the way they created so many chances. They conceded just one goal [before tonight] and it was an own goal.
“What we showed in the first 20-25 minutes, we had a clear plan to control them, probably with some different decisions on the attack or counter attack when we arrived with the ball in our offensive organisation, different decisions probably could have created more chances.
“Of course, they have this capacity to change their formation, and after 25 minutes Graham changed to four at the back because we had been doing really well, and they started to control the game a little bit better and we had some difficulties at the end of the first half.
“We spoke at half time about how we should be more aggressive, with our two wingers a little bit higher. The goal gave us the confidence and belief that we needed in that moment.
“Afterwards there’s the second goal, and even with the penalty when they score for 2-1 I think we controlled really well.
“They changed some players, they put fresh legs inside, two strikers at the end of the game as well, but we controlled really well.”
With Brighton pushing for an equaliser, the Fulham players managed the match impeccably during eight minutes of stoppage time, frustrating the visitors by keeping the ball up their end of the pitch.
“It was really, really good,” Silva replied when asked about his team seeing the game out. “We showed the maturity to control, after the 2-1 as well.
“The way we controlled the last minutes of the game, the extra time, we showed the maturity that I’m really pleased to see, and I want to see, in our team – confidence, when we lost the ball there was a strong reaction as well.
“We showed the maturity to control far from our own half. It was really good and was one of the keys for controlling the game in that moment.
“Unbelievable work from our team without the ball, off the ball. It was fantastic the way we pressed most of the moments.
“They deserve all the credit. I’m really proud of them, of the fans as well, because they helped us in certain moments when we were struggling a little bit in the game.
“To be honest, I think we clearly deserved the three points.”
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Graham Potter praises Moises Caicedo and talks Neal Maupay exit after narrow win #BHAFC
Graham Potter has laughed off talk of a £42 million bid for Moises Caicedo and said: That might get his boots.
Albion are “calm and confident” about keeping the Ecuador midfielder on board.
Caicedo is likely to be linked with other Premier League clubs going into the final hours of the transfer window.
But it appears near certain he will be staying with the Seagulls.
His focus will be on helping chase a win at Fulham this evening which would take them top of the Premier League.
Potter said: “It doesn’t surprise me that people are looking at him because he is playing at a fantastic level.
“As soon as you do research on him you realise he is a top kid, great person, young, playing in the Premier League, has all the attributes to play at the very, very highest level.”
“But we know the position he is in and we know the position the club are in, which is why we don’t want to lose him.
“We don’t think we will, but in football you never know. That is how it is, but we are quite calm and confident.”
Asked about speculation of a £42 million Liverpool offer, Potter said with a laugh: “I think you’d probably get his boots for that, maybe, knowing the chairman!
“It’s not for me to talk about. It is what it is.”
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Leeds boss Jesse Marsch explains his outbursts at the Amex #LUFC
Jesse Marsch has explained why he argued his way to a yellow card at the Amex.
The Leeds boss was booked for his ongoing complaints about decisions by Michael Salisbury.
He was fortunate to avoid a second yellow when he sarcastically applauded that decision.
Marsch’s regular complaints led to him being taunted by the home crowd.
He said: “I thought my behaviour at that point deserved the yellow card.
“When you don’t believe you are getting performances out of the referee, I think you have two options.
“To sit there and take it or to escalate your behaviour to try to make a point, to see if you can affect the way decisions are being made.
“Sometimes it works for you, sometimes it works against you.
“I will never be a guy who just sits there and takes it. That’s not my style."
He added: “I didn’t think it was a good performance (by the referee), but I don’t think ours was a good performance in the first half. This can happen.
“We had him against Chelsea as fourth official and I like his demeanour.
“I just think he didn’t have the best performance today.
“I know I let him know that maybe a couple too many times!”
Marsch said Leeds were “very lucky” to get to half-time on level terms.
Asked how Albion made life tough, he said: “They very clearly man-mark.
“Then with the ball they almost just played long and gave us the ball because they wanted to bypass our pressing, which is part of the match plan that we wanted to build.
“When you play against man-marking, if you give them time to get into their schemes, then it’s always difficult unless you’re really sharp with combinations and movements in behind to break them down.”
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Scott Parker admits “Not Happy” with Bournemouth’s ‘demeanour’ in Arsenal defeat after incredible Brighton win #AFCB #ArsenalFC #BHAFC
BOSS Scott Parker expressed his disappointment with Cherries' first-half display against Arsenal, insisting: "Our general demeanour was pretty poor."
Cherries found themselves 2-0 behind inside 11 minutes at Vitality Stadium, with Gunners' captain Martin Odegaard bagging a brace.
William Saliba added a third early in the second half as the red-hot Gunners cruised to a 3-0 victory, to move top of the embryonic Premier League table.
Asked if this was another harsh reality of the quality in the Premier League, following on from the 4-0 loss at Manchester City last weekend, Parker told the Daily Echo: "It probably is in that sense. The quality of what we faced today was probably clear for all you guys to see.
"I was bitterly disappointed with the first half really.
"I thought we showed a real lack of humility about us. And the game can look like that in terms of the levels of what we’re up against.
"The game can look the sheer quality of what we’re up against, individually, that’s going to be the case and that’s clear.
"But I just thought in terms of our general endeavour, our body language, our humility to accept certain situations, I thought we were just easily disappointed.
"And while we could never get a foothold in the game, and never cause or pose Arsenal any sort of problem, our general demeanour was pretty poor really and I was disappointed immensely with that, to be honest."
Asked how concerning the players' body language during the first half was, Parker added: "A little bit concerning. I’m disappointed with that really.
"I’m disappointed in terms of our reactions at times and our reactions to the brilliance of what we were up against.
"I stepped into this game today having a clear understanding and a clear picture in my head of what this game may look like at times and what it may look like is the sheer quality of what we were up against at times may be very dominant. That’s just plainly humility from my behalf.
"That’s not me being negative and saying okay, because you’re up against huge quality and the quality they possess, can you win it? Of course we can win the game. Of course we can be competitive, I just felt at times today that wasn’t the case and we were easily disappointed.
"Whether that was a spell which they have, whether that is individual bits of brilliance they had, we just slowly wilted a little bit and didn’t show a real understanding of that and that’s what disappointed me."
Discussing the similarities between this and the loss to Man City last week, Parker said: "There was definitely a difference today, I felt.
"I thought there was a big difference today. We’ve played Man City, arguably one of the best teams in Europe.
"We’ve played Arsenal today, huge quality and will be right up there as well. So there’s no shame in losing, for sure.
"Last week was exactly that, but certainly today in the first half, I felt it wasn’t a team I wanted to see in that sense really. I was disappointed.
"Second half, improvement. Okay, we changed it tactically and went to a back four, but ultimately the big difference was an understanding of how a game, when you’re Bournemouth, playing against Arsenal, is going to look at times and an acceptance of the brilliance that’s on the pitch and at times the quality of that can’t disappoint you.
"Like I said, the first half I felt that was the case."
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Graham Potter makes Moises Caicedo admission and reveals admiration for David Moyes #BHAFC #WHUFC
The Ecuador international is due to make hiS 11th Premier League appearance when the Seagulls visit West Ham tomorrow.
He has done enough in his previous ten to attract interest from several big clubs, including Manchester United and Liverpool.
But head coach Graham Potter says the 20-year-old’s feet remain firmly on the ground.
Potter said: “He’s a really humble person. He loves playing football and is really low maintenance as a footballer.
“He wants to join in with his team-mates and he’s really enjoying his football, as you can imagine.
“He’s only young, but he’s got such a high possibility.
“We love him here. As for speculation, it is what it is, you’re always going to get that stuff, but we’re really enjoying having him here.”
Potter has said on several occasions he might have waited too long to give Caicedo his Premier League chance.
He added: “I am happy for him that he’s enjoying his football.
“He hasn’t played many games. He hasn’t played that many games in the Premier League, so maybe he thinks it’s easier than it is, but long may that continue.”
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Danny Welbeck responds to loss of Marc Cucurella and Yves Bissouma #BHAFC
Danny Welbeck says Albion can cope with losing two key players – and become an even tighter unit.
The Seagulls striker has signed a new two-year deal in a summer which has seen Marc Cucurella and Yves Bissouma move on.
Welbeck said: “You don't really want to be losing those two players but it has happened so there’s not much we can do.
“We can’t be kicking up a fuss or sulking about it.
“It’s what we do as a group now that maybe brings us even closer together.
“We know that everyone here now are the people who are going to be fighting for each other on the pitch.
“We take that and we try and build on it, however difficult it may be because these are two top players.
“Really good guys as well so, personally, I’m very pleased for them to get that opportunity to go on to these big clubs and showcase their talent.
“They are going to be playing Champions League football, which is massive.
“Really happy for them personally but, as a club, being a Brighton player, I’m a bit peeved!”
Welbeck’s new deal will take his stint with the Seagulls to four seasons.
He told BBC Radio 5 Live: “Brighton as a club, from the top down to the bottom, is full of good people.
“They look after everybody involved at the club.
“The facilities are amazing, great manager to play underneath and it’s a good squad, very hungry players, people that are willing to improve every single day.
“To be a part of that process and trying to elevate the club to the next level, that’s something I’m looking forward to over these next two years.”
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Joel Veltman reveals how Brighton ruined ten Hag’s debut #BHAFC #MUFC
Joel Veltman did not have time for a catch-up with his old boss after Albion beat Manchester United.
He spoke to Donny van de Beek, Tyrell Malacia and Christian Eriksen but not Erik ten Hag after the Seagulls’ 2-1 win.
But he said he saw enough to suspect the former Ajax coach WILL cause opponents problems as he settles in at Old Trafford.
Veltman was outstanding again for the Seagulls, for what he did and for how his capabilities, and those of Adam Webster, allowed Graham Potter to play a certain way.
Albion were able to defend strongly but also have a side packed with creative, potentially attacking players.
They also showed the ability to adapt to problems on the pitch, even though Webster admitted it was hard to hear each other at times when the home fans found their voices.
There were maybe three ways of appreciating the game at Old Trafford.
You could enjoy the occasion. Arriving at the famous, imposing stadium more than three hours before kick-off and finding a real buzz already.
Even the anticipation of heading to the North West hearing so much build-up to one that day’s main events in world football.
Okay, almost all the build-up was focussed on United. But that was fine. Actually, it was perfect.
And the sounds and sights of a packed stadium in the sunshine, with the away corner vibrant, of course.
Then you could enjoy the afternoon for the football being played. A clever back heel, some shrewd forward play, a leaping fingertip catch, an end-to-end move.
Thirdly, you could look at it as probably the loudest game of chess you have ever seen.
The tacticians, both amateur and professional, had a field day analysing what went on between the former Ajax boss and the English coach who is quietly taking the Premier League by storm.
There is a wealth of tactical analysis around in coverage of the Prem these days.
A bit like all the stats and data you now see, it is fascinating to a point – before it becomes a bit tedious.
But Veltman summed it up succinctly – that he and Webster had to do “one-and-a-half jobs” to play their part wide of Lewis Dunk.
(Actually Webster used the same phrase in his interviews deep beneath the Stretford End).
The Holland international told The Argus: “I know how it is, I know how he (ten Hag) plays.
“Of course, different stadium, different fans, different players but you could see at the beginning we are struggling because of his ideas.
“So I think he will do great things here.
“There were two tens, Fernandes and Eriksen, and two wide players, Rashford and Sancho.
“We were struggling with Webster and me, ‘Okay, shall we go inside’ and then we leave Rashford and they played the diagonal pass.
“In the end we did one-and-a-half jobs. I think our shape was better after 15 minutes.
“Moises and Pascal were sometimes central defenders as well because their tens were quite high on the pitch so we were struggling a bit with that.
“But we stuck together, got compact and waited for our chances.”
Of course, the Albion back three and even the goalkeeper can all play a bit.
There was talk about them playing a bit longer than usual.
But the second goal was a masterpiece of short passing almost from their own byline.
Veltman said: “We played out sometimes unbelievably well.
“How we performed with the ball was really good.
“We could create some chances for us.
“It started from the back and Pascal Gross finished it.”
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Graham Potter gives Brighton verdict ahead of Premier League opener against Manchester United #BHAFC #MUFC
Graham Potter insists that Brighton will only be focusing on themselves during their…
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Graham Potter and Brighton set sights on Old Trafford for first game of the season #BHAFC #MUFC
Graham Potter says Albion have a big week ahead as they prepare for the Premier League.
The head coach was delighted with the 5-1 win over Espanyol, in which Leandro Trossard scored a 14-minute hat-trick in the second half.
Attention now turns to what is likely to be a far tougher test at Manchester United on Sunday.
Potter said: “It was a good performance, with lots of positives.
“We’ll take that and we know we’ve got a good week ahead to prepare for a tough start.
“We’re as happy as you can be with pre-season in terms of the spirit of the players and how we’re coming together but still a bit of work to do.”
Adam Webster and Lewis Dunk scored with headers before Trossard took over.
Potter said: “I thought we attacked well, created some chances and it probably should have been a couple more at half-time.
“We were the dominant team throughout the game and I think the scoreline reflected that in the end.
“It was nice for us to get the goals and Leo to score three. It’s quite unusual so we’ll take that.”
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Brighton boss happy with ‘stronger’ squad and player developement instead of getting new players #BHAFC
ALBION boss Graham Potter believes his squad is the strongest it has been since he took charge of the club in 2019.
Potter has been comforted by the fact his squad has spent plenty of time together during pre-season and that there has been very little interruption with injuries.
He told BHAFC: “We're stronger now because we've been together for another year.
“People make a lot about transfers, with the media and the clock ticking down to the transfer deadline day.
“So everyone seems to think that it's about what you get and the external solution.
“But ultimately, it's about how you develop your team and the club. We're quite calm and happy with what we've done.
“There's a lot of players that can play a few more minutes than they played last year, the likes of [Enock] Mwepu, [Moises] Caicedo, even [Alexis] Mac Allister can. Danny Welbeck didn't play that much last year, so there's guys that have taken steps.
“Last year we went periods without Lewis Dunk and Adam Webster, so the squad’s now as strong as it's been in my time here.
“There's a combination of really good, experienced players and some exciting ambitious young ones - and ambitious older ones as well!
“We're quite happy with everything. Of course the window’s open and you have to keep looking. But my job fundamentally as a head coach is to improve the guys that are here.”
Potter does have one conundrum as he hopes to replace Yves Bissouma, who joined Tottenham Hotspur, with an internal solution.
He said: “Midfield is a strong area for us. Hopefully the players we have can take the space that Yves has left. We know the quality of Yves and we wish him well with his new chapter in his life and his career, but that's football - life goes on.
“We've also got some good young players and a nice mix of people in that area.
“So we're looking forward to seeing how that manifests itself.”
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Dale Stephens says he is ‘lucky’ to be training at Brighton #BHAFC
Dale Stephens will train with Albion until the end of the week as he looks for a new club.
The former Seagulls midfielder says he is lucky to have the chance to work at Lancing.
Pre-season training continues this week before Albion start their friendly fixtures against Union St-Gilloise on Saturday.
Stephens, who was released by Burnley at the end of last season, said: “It’s trying to find the right fit.
“I had a difficult couple of years not playing many minutes.
“I think the main focus is trying to get as many games as possible over the next couple of years.
“All last week or so I’ve been okay.
“A lot of lads are in the same position.
“The closer it gets to the start of the season, which is obviously the end of the month in the Championship, it’s obviously going to play on your nerves a little bit more.
“At the moment, I think I’m in a good enough position where I’ve been lucky enough to go down to Brighton and train last week.
“I’m due to do that this week up until Friday so I know I’m doing as much as I can in the meantime.
“I can imagine in a couple of weeks’ time it will be more edgy, I think.”
📱 “I actually found out I’d been released on Twitter…”❌ “It’s bizarre. There wasn’t dialogue, but it was a clean break.”Dale Stephens reveals how he found out he’d been released by Burnley pic.twitter.com/2UMb6mPVeX
— talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) July 3, 2022
Stephens revealed he knew Burnley would let him go - but confirmation only came when he saw the news on Twitter.
He worked alone on his fitness while on holiday in Greece.
Speaking to TalkSPORT, he added: “I’m in the best position at the moment in that I’m getting touches of the ball and the physical output.
“The technical stuff I probably wouldn’t get if I was training on my own.”
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Brighton’s Moises Caicedo is inspiration to Ecuadorian Jeremy Sarmiento #BHAFC
Jeremy Sarmiento has revealed his colleague and best mate is inspiring him to shine for Albion and Ecuador.
The winger and his family have been helping Moises Caicedo settle into English life after his move from South America.
Sarmiento and Caicedo are close mates off the pitch and are currently away with their national team.
Caicedo has made a huge impression with the Seagulls and is a mainstay of La Tri.
He played the full game as Ecuador beat Cape Verde 1-0 in a friendly in Florida last night.
Sarmiento has not reached that level yet and has been impeded by injury.
But he is back in action after his latest hamstring issue, havving played the first half last night, and has set sights high.
Caicedo spent the first half of last season on loan at Beerschot.
Sarmiento said: “When I knew he was coming back from Belgium, from the first minute I was with him.
“Helping him with whatever.
“I also learn a lot from him on the pitch.
“He is playing all the matches and he is tearing it up and that pushes me to be in the team with him on the same pitch.
“It is fantastic to have a friend who I can share things with at Brighton and in the Ecuador squad.”
Sarmiento was first to make his Prem debut – and was handed a first start at West Ham on December 1.
A hamstring injury early in that game blew a big hole in his season.
He suffered a similar, but less serious, setback when he suddenly pulled up when playing for the under-23s at home to Chelsea late in the campaign.
While not a major blow, it was enough to end his club season.
But Ecuador boss Gustavo Alfaro has used him as a sub in recent friendlies against Nigeria and Mexico in the United States.
From New Jersey and Chicago, Ecuador have now moved south to Fort Lauderdale to play Cape Verde over the weekend.
Sarmiento loves the fact they have stuck with him during his injury problems.
He said: “When I made my debut with Brighton, from what they tell me, I think they were watching as well.
“They got in contact with my dad, with the club, with me.
“They offered me the chance to go to qualifiers against Bolivia, Colombia and Venezuela.
“I was surprised, to tell the truth.
“It was very quick, I didn’t expect it.
“But I could see they had this trust in me that Gustavo still has.
“I thank him a lot, not only him but the staff and coaches as well.
“I’ve had injuries and it has not been easy for me and they know I’m not at my maximum yet, still recovering.
“But they still keep me in mind.
“They still have this confidence in me.
WHY BRIGHTON LOOKS RIGHT CHOICE FOR IN-DEMAND JULIO ENCISO
“I’m very grateful for this chance to help the team get as far as possible. I’m happy.”
Sarmiento was born to Ecuadorean parents in Madrid.
He spent about a decade in London, followed by a stint in Lisbon playing for Benfica. Three countries were keen on getting him involved in their national set-ups.
He said: “When I first came to Brighton, England called me and so did Spain.
“But I always had this dream of representing my country and also my parents’ country and making them happy as well.
“I feel more at home with the Ecuador national team.
“The atmosphere there is different to, for example, people here.
“Here people are colder.
“There, you go in the changing room and everyone is dancing (laughs) and doing stuff, it’s good to be in this atmosphere.
“My time with the Ecuador squad has been phenomenal.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Newcastle United and Brighton confirm deal for Dan Ashworth #BHAFC #NUFC
DAN ASHWORTH is set to become the new sporting director at Newcastle United.
Albion and Newcastle United have reached an agreement for the immediate release of Dan Ashworth from his contractual obligations at the Amex.
The terms of this agreement, which is subject to regulatory approval, will remain confidential between the clubs.
Albion have thanked Ashworth for his time at the club, a statement said: "We would like to thank Dan for his services and wish him well for the future."
Back in February Albion manager Graham Potter admitted he was sorry to see Ashworth leave. However, the Albion boss knows life will go on at the Amex Stadium.
He said: “There is a good organisation here, a fantastic chairman, good people that have been here before me and Dan were here and they will be here after.
“So it is what it is, we will move forward as a club together and we will take on the challenge of life without Dan as best as we can.
“From my perspective, I respect Dan and what he has done for us, I respect the decision that he has made and wish him well.
“But I know as a football club this club doesn’t rely on one person, it is a real collective strength that we have and that is what I think will take us through.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Former Everton defender joins Brighton backroom #EVERTONFC #BHAFC
Brighton & Hove Albion have appointed former Everton defender David Weir as their…
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Brighton head Paul Walker gives insights on vision of the club #BHAFC
All members of Albion’s staff received carefully chosen words of thanks and congratulations when the club’s season ended in style.
The appreciative message from chief executive and deputy chairman Paul Barber came very soon after the 3-1 win over West Ham which secured ninth place.
Staff were encouraged to appreciate what had happened and to enjoy their summer break.
But the message will move on quickly – from “well done” to “follow that”.
It has to in an ultra-competitive environment like the Premier League.
The Seagulls’ hierarchy revealed an aim three years ago to establish themselves as a top-ten club.
But, as was made clear then, that did not mean coming tenth once. Or even ninth.
It meant being part of that top ten in all, or most, years on a more consistent basis.
They are some way from doing that.
One soaring Seagull does not make a summer.
But they have made an important breakthrough.
So the focus goes back on to the future as Barber himself starts his second decade at the club with a new contract.
Technical director Dan Ashworth is off to pastures new, most likely Newcastle and, the hope is on Tyneside, in time for the transfer window.
But an otherwise solid, consistent feel about Albion’s structure will only be reinforced by news of Barber’s new deal, which is being described as long-term.
He told The Argus: “I strongly believe the best football clubs are built on a good owner, a clear vision, a consistent strategy, high quality people on, off and around the field, and stability.
“I’m very fortunate here that we have all of that.
“As a consequence, there will always be interest in our staff and players.
“We have excellent people in all areas, and every approach we receive for them is a compliment to how the club has progressed, on and off the field.”
In his post-season message to staff, Barber described this as “a truly exciting period in our club’s history”.
But the message was to now work even harder on and off the pitch to maintain a top-ten placing.
Another goal at some stage in the coming years will be to win a trophy.
There is also the ongoing effort to establish the women’s team within the top four of the FA WSL.
That is another part of Bloom’s vision for the club.
Hope Powell’s squad are making progress but have not yet experienced the sort of Eureka moment enjoyed by Graham Potter’s men of late.
As the dust settled on that West Ham game and the joyous post-match scenes, Barber told staff: “I know there is nobody prouder than Tony tonight.”
Barber’s new deal will make him the third longest-serving executive in a such a role within the Premier League.
Susan Whelan has been in a similar role at Leicester City since 2010, when King Power took over the club from Milan Mandaric.
BRIGHTON LATEST ON BIDS AND APPROACHES FOR STAR PLAYERS
Daniel Levy at Tottenham is way out in front in terms of longevity having been at the helm since 2001.
But his role is slightly different as executive chairman rather than CEO.
Barber joined Albion in 2012 ahead of a summer also notable for player signings such as those of Bruno, Wayne Bridge and Tomasz Kuszczak as Albion built a side which chased promotion from the Championship.
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Brighton captain Lewis Dunk praises end of season points flurry with big wins #BHAFC
ALBION captain Lewis Dunkhas praised the club for a good finish to the season.
The Seagulls beat West Ham United on the final matchday of the Premier League campaign, confirming their place in the top half of the table.
This was made positive after a solid run of form which saw the club collect 17 points from their last eight games, including wins against Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United.
The season will go into the record books of the club as the best ever and Dunk is hoping for even better next season.
He said: “It’s been amazing. It has been a long old season with a lot of ups and downs but to finish it in the way we did has been unbelievable.
“As a club we wanted to get into the top ten, and to accomplish it is brilliant – but we have to go again next year and try and do even better.
“You have got to have ambition but the Premier League can be hard, as we found out a few weeks ago.
“The international break in March came at a good time for us. We worked hard and finished the season incredibly strongly.”
The good run of form followed a seven game winless run in which Albion's only point came in a draw against Norwich.
Dunk said: “We stuck together in the dressing room and that was the result, a really strong finish.
“We have come a long way as a club and I’ve been lucky to be on the whole journey from Withdean to the new stadium but we want more.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Brighton boss hails season as ‘amazing’ after comeback win over West Ham #BHAFC
ALBION boss Graham Potter has praised his team for finishing the season on a high.
The Seagulls came back from one goal down to beat the Europa League semi-finalists West Ham 3-1 at the Amex Stadium, thanks to goals from Joel Veltman, Pascal Gross and Danny Welbeck.
The result meant that Albion finished the Premier League season with 51 points and in 9th place in the Premier League, a record finish for the club.
Potter said: "In terms of today, it was reletively even but it was great for the boys to come from a goal down. It is not easy to score three goals against West Ham. So we are delighted to win.
"As a season on a whole, I am really proud of the players and the club.
"Fifty-one points and ninth in the Premier League is something for us to be proud of us and to understand that it has not been straightforward.
"There has been moments that have been challenging, and I am sure that there are experts that will say we should have done this or that.
"But generally in the Premier League, it is so difficult and you have to stick together, and we have done that and to ended up where we have is amazing."
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Graham Potter breaks down changes in Brighton’s tactical plan to win games #BHAFC
Graham Potter has – and it something he has enjoyed.
The Seagulls have had a new look ever since going to Arsenal six weeks ago.
They had just lost six in a row and drawn at home to Norwich, scoring one goal in those seven matches, as they arrived at the Emirates.
Potter confused a few people that day when the team sheets were published.
But a line-up packed with midfielders, with three defenders and allowing Danny Welbeck to stretch play in attack has worked well.
Wins at Arsenal and Tottenham on successive Saturdays revived what had been a flagging season.
Potter actually changed again and went for a false No.9, in Alexis Mac Allister, at Spurs.
But he reverted to the Arsenal masterplan when Welbeck went on at half-time.
Since then, the Seagulls have outclassed Wolves and Manchester United, with six different players sharing seven goals.
They should have also been out of sight at Leeds before being pegged back to a 1-1 draw and there was some good stuff at home to Southampton, only to let a 2-0 lead slip.
Potter broke down the new look to his side for The Argus and offered some thoughts as to why it has worked.
The run has come ever since Moises Caicedo was added to the midfield collective.
Welbeck has been a key man at the sharp end.
Potter said: “Danny’s attributes threaten the back line of defenders and also give you the chance to go long if they are putting pressure on you because of his aerial ability.
“That is one consideration.
“I suppose it started with Moises and Enock (Mwepu) and Yves (Bissouma) in midfield just for a bit of physicality against Arsenal and against Tottenham.
“Marc Cucurella has grown and grown in terms of he is really good when he comes on to the game.
“Even though he is a left centre-back, he can step in and attack from there.
“But then you need to be solid in the midfield area because you are short of a defending player if he has gone forward.
“So it’s just about finding the right balance.
“Inverted wing-backs allow you to play sometimes centrally from the wide area rather than crossing positions so that gives you a few more possibilities.
“All the concepts we have been working on throughout the season, I think, have stayed the same. It’s just finding the right balance for the right game.
“Recently we have done that.
“We have been a little more vertical, I would say, when we have won the ball back. A bit more positive.
“Too often we were probably a bit too safe and not looking for that pass.
“I think that is something we have done better.
“That has knock-ons for how you defend as well in terms of how you press and the mentality of your forwards.
“So lots of things and then results just make it a little nicer because it gives everyone a bit of belief and you can carry on with your work.”
Albion have 14 points from seven games since making the switch and would love to finish in style against West Ham.
GRAHAM POTTER CAN LEAD BRIGHTON TO BEST-EVER FINISH
Potter said: “It’s better to be that than the other way.
“We will have to assess the season as a whole rather than what happens on Sunday, but it would be nice if we could win and I am sure David Moyes will say the same thing.
“Then, if we can manage to do it, it’s a points tally to be proud of, with the work behind it something we can be happy of.
“But until then it’s just a case of preparing for the game as we have done, deciding what’s the right thing to do for the game.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Graham Potter can lead Brighton to best-ever league finish #BHAFC
But Graham Potter, who celebrated his third anniversary in charge on his 47th birthday today, says it is already his best season with the club.
The Seagulls, currently tenth, would claim their highest-ever finishing position with a point at home to West Ham on Sunday (4pm).
They are looking to better the 13th place secured under Mike Bailey in 1981-82.
A draw against the Hammers will actually ensure a top-ten finish unless Brentford win heavily at home to Leeds.
Victory could take the Seagulls as high as eighth, although ninth, behind Leicester and ahead of Wolves, looks more likely based on the last-day fixtures.
Potter said: “I’ve only been here three years.
“It has been the best year that we’ve had in my three years.
“I wouldn’t want to disrespect anybody’s memories or anybody’s efforts past that time.
“The points tally, where we finished in the league, we’ll obviously see after the game.
“We’ve been competitive in a lot of the games, taking some really impressive results.
“Performances, I think, have improved. Young players have taken steps.
“So there’s lots of positives, I think.
“But this club has got a history as well. I don’t want to disrespect that.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Promising Brighton attacker believes loan move has helped him progress #BHAFC
REDA KHADRA believes the support he received from Blackburn fans during his loan spell from Albion allowed him to play his best football.
The attacker impressed at Ewood Park, scoring four goals and assisting three more in 27 appearances before injury cut his season short.
Khadra was joined at the Lancashire club by fellow Albion loanee Jan Paul van Hecke, who would go on to win the player of the season award at the club. Hecke was the first loan player to win the award and proves the relationship that the players built with the fans.
Reda Khadra in action for Brighton and Hove Albion
Khadra said: “I think our connection with the fans came because JP and I gave 100 per cent on the pitch every game, we never acted like we were only loan players who didn’t care about the club. We would really care if we didn’t win.
“The bond between me and the fans was great. They pushed me and gave me confidence. I knew if I tried something and it didn’t come off they would still back me.
“As a team we would go out for meals together, the group was really tight. I really enjoyed it, you could speak to anyone in the dressing room, there weren’t any cliques and they were like a family to me.
“We were disappointed to not finish in the play-offs but in football you need to keep going and hopefully next season they will do it. Let’s hope we see each other in the Premier League one day.”
Reda Khadra
Khadra's best moment of the season was winning the goal of the season award for his brilliant free-kick against QPR, as Blackburn won the game 1-0.
The German under 21 international believes the faith put in him by manager Tony Mowbray has helped him develop as a player.
He said: “It was a pretty good season for me and the award was a great feeling. To have the trust from the manager was really important for my progress.
“I was on the bench for the first few games but then I got into the team and did well from that point on.
“You understand the game better the more you experience it. If someone gives you the chance when you’re out on loan, I feel you do become a better player.”
Khadra joined Albion as a free transfer after he was released from Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund.He made his first team debut for the club in January 2021 as he came on as a late substitute against Manchester City.
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Graham Potter reveals how he led a Brighton fans’ chant at the Amex after Manchester United win #BHAFC
Graham Potter said he was happy to show fans another side of his character – after he led a chant outside the Amex.
The Albion boss was surrounded by supporters who were still celebrating the 4-0 win over Manchester United as he made his way to the car park last Saturday evening.
The call went up for Potter to give them a song.
To the fans’ surprise, Potter stopped, asked for quiet and then, after a dramatic pause, roared: “Seeeeguuuullllssss!”
It was a moment which will go into Albion fans’ folklore.
My Manager ❤️ #BHAFC pic.twitter.com/aL0OxAfpmd
— Marcus Chisholm (@ChisholmMarcus) May 8, 2022
Put a silk scarf on his wrist and he could have easily passed for a terrace leader in the North Stand at the Goldstone back in the 1970s.
The moment quickly went viral on Twitter and was even shown at the club’s awards night on Monday.
In a light-hearted part of his pre-Leeds press conference yesterday, Potter told The Argus: “I couldn’t get back to my car. That was the only way so I had no choice, essentially!”
BRIGHTON EXPECT HOSTILE RECEPTION AT LEEDS
With a laugh, he added: “I am actually an all-right person, you know? I have got a bit of emotion now and again and I am quite good company if you spend it out of this situation, I’d like to think!
“My role is help the team and I have to try and be myself to help the team in the best way I can.
“I’ve always said I don’t think it’s good to show no emotion at all.
“I think I have shown emotion over the last three years and sometimes not in a good way.
“But after you beat Manchester United 4-0 and play the way we did and you see the supporters and you feel their frustration over a season and the home record, sometimes it’s nice to walk through them and act like a bit of an idiot!”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Todd Miller signs new deal with Brighton #BHAFC
The 19-year-old attacking midfielder has made 19 Premier League 2 appearances this campaign, scoring four goals and contributing four assists.
He produced an eye-catching performance when the young Seagulls drew 2-2 at League Two leaders Forest Green in the Papa John's Trophy.
Miller, formerly with Colchester United, said: "I am delighted to sign for another year.
"I’ve had a really good season. I have played a lot of games and I want to build on that.
“I’ve played in a few different positions this season which I’ve enjoyed and I’ve learned more about the game.
“The under-23s environment under Andrew Crofts is similar to the first team, which is good preparation if we get the opportunity to make the step up. I get on really well with him on both a personal and professional level and I know he will help me kick on again next season.
“It was good to end the season on a high with the Sussex Senior Cup final win, it reflected the togetherness in the team.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Liam Cooper calls Brighton match massive for the club #LUFC #BHAFC
LEEDS defender Liam Cooper believes the match against Albion on Sunday is "massive" for the club.
Albion travel to Elland Road to take on Leeds as they look to cement their place in the top half of the Premier League following a brilliant run of form that has yielded 14 points from the previous 21 available.
The run includes impressive wins over Arsenal, Tottenham, Wolves and Manchester United.
Leeds on the other hand have lost their previous three games and are winless in four, a set of results that have left the Yorkshire side dwelling in the relegation zone, one point from safety.
Last time out Leeds were comfortably beaten by Chelsea 3-0 and defender Cooper has admitted that a result against Albion is needed to help with the fight for survival.
Chelsea's Romelu Lukaku scored the third goal against Leeds
He told LUTV: “We have to pick the lads up, we’ve got a massive game at home at the weekend.
“We all need to pull together and make it one hell of an atmosphere here at the weekend, like the fans always do, and we have to produce on the pitch as well.
“It’s a massive game, let’s make a right good go of it. From our point of view, my message to the lads is that we can’t feel sorry for ourselves, we’re in a fight and we know that.
“We’ve got to go and be positive, approach the game and get a result in any way possible.
“It doesn’t have to be pretty, it doesn’t have to be nice, we have to go and do it the Leeds way and hopefully we can do that at the weekend.”
Albion have a good record against Leeds since the Yorkshire side was promoted last season, winning twice and drawing once.
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Brighton attacker heaps praises on boss for ‘best season’ and admits new role enjoyment #BHAFC
LEANDRO TROSSARD has praised Albion manager Graham Potter and admitted that it is "lovely" to work for him.
The Belgian attacker is enjoying his best season since joining the club three seasons ago from KRC Genk.
Trossard has scored eight goals this season and assisted three more in his 33 Premier League appearances this season, including two assists and a goal in Albion's 4-0 thrashing of Manchester United on Saturday.
Brighton forward Leandro Trossard
The 27-year-old believes the club has developed under Potter since his arrival at the club and argues that the club are having its best season.
He said: "Yeah it is lovely. It is my third year with him now and you can see how we have developed as a team.
"It is our best season yet and if we could act like this every single week we can do special things with this team.
"Obviously I work on that every day. We had some not so good spells during the season and it is hard for me.
"I am enjoying it and the gaffer has helped as well by saying to just keep believing and if he shows the confidence in me I will give it back.
"That is what I am doing."
Trossard has had to develop his game with Potter as the manager tends to utilise players in different positions and recently the traditional attacker has had to play as a wing-back, but it has not phased him.
When asked if the wing-back role was his new favourite position, Trossard said: "Favourite? I wouldn't say that but if the gaffer wants me to play there I don't mind to play there.
"I like to be on my pitch enjoying my game and it has worked the last couple of weeks."
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Graham Potter on Brighton’s 4-0 win over Manchester United #BHAFC
Graham Potter hopes Albion have given their long-suffering home fans some special memories.
He saw his side humiliate Manchester United 4-0 on a memorable evening at the Amex.
It was only a fourth win of the season at home but will occupy a prime position in the 11-year-old stadium’s hall of fame.
Head coach Potter said: “It’s a great performance. Fantastic result.
“As much as it is about wins and league tables, it is about creating memories and moments we can share with people.
“I always say there are two teams on the pitch and we played well.
“I can’t comment on the opponent.
“All I can speak about is my team and how well they did and how brave they were, how aggressive they were.
“It was a fantastic performance for us. I’m delighted.”
Moises Caicedo and Marc Cucurella scored their first goals in the Premier League.
Pascal Gross scored the third of his career in wins at home to Manchester United and Leandro Trossard added the eighth of his best season yet.
BRIGHTON 4 MANCHESTER UNITED 0: OUR LIVE REPORT
Potter said: “I thought we were little bit unfortunate not to add to the four but our play was really good.
“Today was nice reward for our supporters who have had to endure a bit of suffering here and I would like to thank them for their support.
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Enock Mwepu’s message to Man City target Erling Haaland #MCFC
Enock Mwepu believes former team-mate Erling Haaland can be a hit in the Premier League.
The two played together 16 times for Red Bull Salzburg before Haaland progressed to Borussia Dortmund.
He is now set to move on with Real Madrid and Manchester City contenders for his signature.
Mwepu said: “It has been a while since I spoke with him.
“We used to speak regularly but I think he is a good guy.
“Hopefully he makes a move to the Premier League. I think it will be interesting to meet a former team-mate who you used to play with but is now on the opposite side.
“I think he is courageous enough to come to the Premier League and still score those goals, especially if he joins Manchester City. He can still continue with his goalscoring form.”
Mwepu joked: “Maybe I can tell him to join Brighton!
“I would tell him to come over to the Premier League.
“It is the toughest league, the best league and every game is exciting. So hopefully he will come.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Brighton boss Graham Potter ‘so impressed’ by Cristiano Ronaldo #BHAFC #MUFC
Cristiano Ronaldo is officially professional football’s all-time leading goalscorer.
He may well be the greatest striker, or player of any role, Albion have ever faced in their 121-year history.
True, they have made a few lesser-known strikers look like CR7 at times.
Gary Hooper of Scunthorpe United one Saturday afternoon at Withdean, springs to mind.
But the real thing might be in Falmer this weekend.
And Graham Potter is quite prepared to underline the challenge that will provide his team.
United were second best at Old Trafford earlier this season until Ronaldo provided a high quality finish to put them ahead against the Seagulls.
Yes, there was some effective pressing too as they won possession attacking the Stretford End.
But, once Yves Bissouma had been ambushed just outside his own penalty area, there was still plenty to do before the ball hit Robert Sanchez’s net.
Often, when a manager is asked in the run-up to a match about the quality of an individual in the opposing team, he will say there are multiple threats. It is not all about one man.
While that is also the case to a degree with United, and Potter certainly was not under-rating any of them, one man stands alone in terms of track record and what he is still doing on the big stage.
Potter said: “I have been so impressed with him.
“How he has played, how he has helped his team, scoring and assisting goals.
“You can see how his game has developed from wide to centrally and how that has helped him.
“He’s not getting any younger but you still retain your brain, your standing in football and his finishing is as clinical as you will get.
“It’s a great experience for our players.
“Hopefully he doesn’t have as good an experience at the Amex this Saturday.”
There has some suggestion Ronaldo was feeling his groin or a hamstring late in the win over Brentford on Monday.
By that stage, he had proved influential in a game the Bees started well.
Just as he turned the game against Albion.
Potter said: “It was a strange one. I thought we probably shaded the first half.
“We did well and it was quite even.
“Then pretty quickly in the second half the game got away from us and you could see the first goal, Ronaldo punished us like Ronaldo can.
“That’s the learning experience from that game because regardless of what you say about United’s season, they’ve still got some fantastic players who can hurt you in a second.”
Albion have seen off some big names, of course, with recent wins in north London.
Asked what those games had given his side, Potter said: “Hopefully just the process and journey we have been on.
“You learn all the time, gain belief and trust.
“In my experience of coaching, the longer together you are, the better understanding you have of each other.
“Winning football matches gives everyone a better feeling.
“We are in a good place, as you can imagine after the Wolves performance, which was a strong one.
“So train well this week and looking forward to the game but we know we have to start again and it’s a tough team coming to the Amex and we need to play well.”
Albion have faced some of the great strikers in their years at the Amex.
Sergio Aguero in their first Premier League match. Harry Kane, Luis Suarez, Mo Salah.
Back in the previous top-tier era, they were 2-0 up and in command against Liverpool in a midweek game at the Goldstone when Ian Rush pulled a goal back.
Everyone knew Liverpool never lost when Rush scored and he duly added the inevitable second to force a 2-2 draw.
Rush was the greatest goal-getter of his era in his league.
The numbers say Cristiano Ronaldo is the greatest goal-getter of any era in any league.
That’s the challenge if he walks out at the Amex.
It is one for players and fans to embrace.
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Brighton defender Joel Veltman backs new Manchester United boss Erik Ten Hag to succeed #MUFC
DEFENDER Joel Veltman believes that new Manchester United manager Erik Ten Hag has the qualities to succeed in England when he takes over at Old Trafford.
The Dutchman worked with Ten Hag during his time at Ajax over a two-and-a-half year period before he joined Albion in 2020.
Veltman said: “You could see Ten Hag’s qualities in the first couple of training sessions.
“He had a vision and he wanted to put that into our team and did a great job.
“We were playing really well.
Manchester United manager Erik Ten Hag
“Of course, every gaffer needs his time, but he did well in the end.
“His strength was bringing everyone together, but also tactically and building a team who were all pulling in the same direction.
“He came in halfway during the 2017/18 season and he did a great job, especially in Europe, because that was our next step.
“In the league we were doing well – we were champions or second sometimes, but European competition was tough for Ajax.
“We made it to a semi-final of the Champions League, so that says how good a job he did.”
Veltman believes that there are similar traits between the new boss at Old Trafford to Albion boss Graham Potter.
“On the training pitch he was more like a gaffer – the same as Graham Potter to be honest.
“The assistant coaches would do more of the exercises and he’s more like looking all over like analysing more than saying, ‘you have to do this or do this.’
“Every gaffer needs to bring through the youth – to bring somebody up and I think that's what he did as well with Frenkie de Jong and Matthijs de Lijt.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Brighton captain Lewis Dunk aiming for strong end to season and get all of 9 remaining points #BHAFC
LEWIS DUNK believes that his teammates are aiming for a strong end to the season.
The 3-0 thrashing of Wolves on Saturday saw Albion set their new record for Premier League points collected in a single season (44) and it could get even better for the club as there are still three more games to be played.
Dunk thinks that the players are keen to make the most of their position which has been made possible after winning 11 points out of 18 in April.
The captain told BHAFC: “We’re in a good place at the moment and we want to keep it going right up until the last game – a top-ten finish is definitely something to aim for.
“We’ve got some tough games left but there are nine points to play for and we're looking for nine points.
“We enjoyed the win over Wolves but it’s back to preparing for Manchester United at the Amex on Saturday.
“Let’s take each game on its own and see where we finish up.”
The defender was also full of praise for one of the club's “best performances” of the season against Wolves.
He said: “We really controlled the game and it was one of our best performances of the season.
“We’ve done that quite a few times this season but this time we got the goals as well, so it was a lot less stressful at the end.
“But as a defender I also wanted a clean sheet, so it was nice at the end when their shot hit the post.
“We set high standards in games and in training and we’ll continue to do so for the last three games.”
After Saturday’s Amex date with United, Albion face two sides that they have never lost Premier League games to.
The first is an away fixture against relegation threatened Leeds before the season finale at the Amex against West Ham on May 22.
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Wolves star Pedro Neto admits European chances are “difficult” after defeat against Brighton #WOLVESFC #BHAFC
Wolverhampton Wanderers attacker Pedro Neto admits that it will be "difficult" for the…
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Graham Potter makes ‘another level’ claim after Brighton’s win against Wolves #BHAFC #WolvesFC
Brighton manager Graham Potter has said that the second half performance of his…
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Graham Potter heaps praises on Robert Sanchez as he rivals Alisson in key stat #BHAFC
Albion have been praised for standing strong in defence during a season of upheaval.
Robert Sanchez has earned particular credit in a campaign which has seen various defenders suffer significant absences or leave the club altogether.
Only four teams have conceded fewer away goals than the Seagulls, who visit Wolves tomorrow (3pm).
Albion have nine clean sheets so far this season with four games to go.
Head coach Graham Potter said: “That has been one of the things I’ve been most pleased with, that despite the fact we’ve got key defensive players missing, we’ve managed to perform well as a defensive unit and that’s another factor that makes it harder for Rob.
“If you speak to most goalkeepers, they will want consistency ahead of them.
“They want that stability and I understand, it’s all those things, he has not been able to have that for different reasons.
“It’s credit to him he has still managed to help us with points.
“I saw a stat the other day that he’s only behind Alisson (Becker of Liverpool) in one-v-one saves in the league.
“He has helped us keep clean sheets.
“He’s a young goalkeeper who, like us all, will make mistakes.
“But generally his level is really good and he’s only going to get better.”
IS IT TIME FOR BRIGHTON'S SHANE DUFFY TO MOVE ON
Tariq Lamptey is likely to return to the matchday squad after missing the 2-2 draw with Southampton because of a minor knee injury.
Lamptey trained yesterday and Albion were waiting to see whether he felt any adverse reaction.
Potter will not be rotating his squad with mid-table safety pretty much secured.
He said: “For me it’s pick our strongest team and try and compete for the three points, that’s the priority.
“I think I’d be doing everybody a disservice if I wasn’t thinking that way.
Full #PremierLeague GK 1v1s ranking:As @Carra23 correctly said #Alisson is the 1v1 king! 👑#Sanchez & #Sa have been very impressive too🧤#Pickford, #Guaita, & #Krul have all struggled 😔The general standard of 1v1 GKing has been excellent this year vs previous years! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/Da6lbM2kt0
— John Harrison (@Jhdharrison1) April 26, 2022
“We have to pick the team that we think gives us the best chance of winning because every point in this league is important, so valuable.
“The guys were competing in a really good training session today - everyone wants to play.
“So you know that and then it’s just about picking what you think is the team that gives us the best chance.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Brighton’s Shane Duffy set for talks on his future #BHAFC
Duffy has not played since the home defeat by Tottenham and has only made three Premier League starts since early December.
That after an impressive start to the season when he appeared to have a new lease of life following his return from a miserable loan stint at Celtic.
He is likely to be among the subs when the Seagulls go to Wolves tomorrow.
Potter said: “Shane has been a really important member of the team this season.
“And then, you have to say how well he has done for this football club all round.
“We were all upset with how the year went for him at Celtic.
“It was one of those things where on and off the pitch he struggled.
“It was probably one of the toughest times of his life. “But he came back here and was a breath of fresh air, to be honest.
“He was a credit to himself with how he handled everything.
“He came into the side and helped us get points.
“Since Christmas, however, it has not been as simple for him.
“It has not been as strong a second half of the season as the first for lots of different reasons.
“But he’s still a really important player for us, and a really important person in the group.
“As for his future, I think it’s one of those things that we sit down and we speak at the end of the season.
“He was really low when he came back and was probably thinking about where his career was going.
“But I think he has proven to everybody that he can compete and play at this level.
“For Shane as well he’s not getting any younger. So, it’s about how he can play as much football as he can.
“With all the players you have to sit down with them and think what’s the best thing for him?
“But he’s someone that we have a huge respect for.
“He has been brilliant for me since I’ve been here. I love the big guy to death.”
Potter said a decision would be taken jointly on what comes next for Duffy, who has a year left on his current contract.
He said: “We just need to help people enjoy football because when that’s happening he’s a really important guy. It has to be a two-way discussion.
“Shane is an experienced guy and he has got his career and everything to consider.
“He’s ambitious. He wants to carry on playing for his country. That’s important for him.
“So, all these things you have to take into consideration when you speak to players.”
Duffy returned to the bench for the draw with Southampton last Sunday.
Potter said: “He picked up something around the international break last time so he has only had a few training sessions.
“He was probably ahead of schedule on the bench for us.
“But Shane being Shane, we wanted him around the group, which says a lot about how important he is.
“He will certainly be in the squad again.”
“They have had a really good season.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Brighton’s Pascal Gross reveals his season challenges with double Covid setback and frequent position changes #BHAFC
Pascal Gross's footballing story in England is also Albion's Premier League story – to a large extent.
And he gave us a little reminder of that as he thought he had secured a piece of history on Sunday.
The German midfielder advanced into a dangerous area as in days of old, found space, took the ball on the half turn and saw he had a decent passing option to his right.
Using that runner as a decoy, he took the more daring option, backed his technique and sent the most crisp of low, right-foot shots across the dive of an England goalkeeper and unerringly into the bottom left corner in front of the North Stand.
It should have been the moment which secured Albion’s best ever points tally in the Prem.
Or at least gave them a 3-2 lead over Southampton going into the final minutes.
Instead, an old-fashioned offside flag went up.
Then VAR, something which did not exist when Gross first came our way, confirmed a very tight – did someone say incorrect? - offside decision.
Had it stood, Albion’s latest Prem win could have been secured with a goal just like one we saw in their first.
On that occasion, it was the second goal of the match to open a 2-0 lead in the 3-1 win over West Brom.
(Gross, of course, had scored the opening goal after Chris Hughton’s men had to wait almost three-and-a-half games to get off the mark).
Back then, he drilled the ball past Ben Foster, this time it was Fraser Forster.
The similarity of the strikes did not go unnoticed.
Lewis Dunk remarked on it as he and Gross headed out of the changing rooms and towards the player interview area after Sunday’s game.
The Albion No.13 told The Argus: “Dunky just said the same – he remembered West Brom.
“I saw it for a couple of seconds.
“That was why I celebrated. It would have been nice but it’s ups and downs.
“Great for a second or two, then after disappointed obviously.”
Gross came in as Albion’s goalscoring No.10, playing just off Glenn Murray or Tomer Hemed in Hughton’s 4-4-1-1 set-up.
He has added versatility since then as reflected of late, working out wide or a long way forward helping lead the press.
Against Southampton, he went on at right wing-back as Albion changed shape having seen a 2-0 lead slip away but that did not last long.
He said: “I came on as a right wing-back, then the gaffer made a slight adjustment so I went into midfield.
“I don’t mind. I play where I am needed.
”I think we played really well in the first half.
“Just before half-time we conceded a goal and that is always not a great moment.
“After half-time we struggled a little bit.
“Solly (March) and me came on and as subs you just try to help your team.
“There are always different types of game and different stages.
“You just try to have an impact and help the team.”
Around the time of Albion’s entry into the FA Cup in January, there were questions in Graham Potter’s press conferences as to how much of a part Gross still had in the league.
He had played just a minor role in the previous two months or so.
But he has stepped up a level since then. Been out there in most of the best moments.
Very often (though not always) these days, a curious, unexplained absence or dip in form can be for a reason which did not exist until two years ago and information about which is not readily divulged.
PASCAL GROSS SAYS BRIGHTON HAVE BIG FUTURE
Gross revealed: “I had Covid twice this season, in the first half and it didn’t help, obviously.
“But I am always a part of the team and I try to play as much as I can.
“Try to play as well as I can so that the gaffer has to pick me.
“I try to make it hard for him like every player does.”
Asked how Covid affected him, he said: “It’s just you are out for ten days at least and then you need to rebuild a little bit.
“It’s not great during a season, like other players have little injuries. That doesn’t help.
“I’m fit and I just try to help the team when I am needed.
“It’s not that big a deal but many players have it.
“That’s just the times we live in.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Ralph Hasenhuttl refutes Saints team is playing on the beach after fighting draw against Brighton #SAINTSFC #BHAFC
RALPH Hasenhuttl has refuted suggestions of his Saints players being “on the beach” following the 2-2 draw at Brighton, insisting “we have shown they are not”.
The St Mary’s side had come under fire following the depressing two-goal defeat at relegation-threatened Burnley on Thursday – where they were outfought from first to last.
Saints had ended a run of five Premier League matches without victory with a 1-0 win over Arsenal the previous Saturday, but slipped back into prior form in Lancashire.
The claims of players mentally being on their holidays with survival all wrapped up were only fuelled when Brighton took a 2-0 lead at Amex Stadium, inside the first-half on Sunday.
Brighton took the lead inside two minutes on Sunday (Pic: PA)
However, thanks to a James Ward-Prowse free-kick and long-range strike, Saints went on to rescue a point in Sussex – and put in a performance which could have harboured more.
Read more
“It was said last week that the guys on the pitch seemed to be on the beach,” Hasenhuttl recalled. “But we have shown today that they are not.
“They want to achieve more than 40 points and today we showed a very, very good reaction. It is not the first time this season we have shown it, we have shown it very often.”
He continued: “Also now where some people think the season is gone for us because we have now 40 points and you can be sure that we want to get more. We have four games to go and still have plenty of points to take and we will keep on going.”
Brighton’s early opener, scored by Danny Welbeck inside 90 seconds, was the first goal the Seagulls had scored at home since January – blanking in five fixtures since.
They have won just three home matches all season, and would be relegated on home form alone so far. Hasenhuttl insisted his side could sense the fragility and were urged to keep pushing.
“We kept the pressure high on them and we knew about the history they had in their own ground where they haven’t won a lot of games this season,” he added.
“It was clear they are a little bit struggling mentally and we tried to use this fact and absolutely deserved the equaliser.”
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Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Southampton boss explains decision to make six changes for Brighton #BHAFC #SAINTSFC
RALPH Hasenhuttl explained making six changes from the defeat to Burnley was not a message to his players but “a response to the shape we wanted to play”, following a 2-2 draw at Brighton.
The Austrian boss switched from the five-back defence to his usual shape after a dismal showing at Turf Moor on Thursday night, which saw Saints battered in a 2-0 defeat.
Saints were lucky to not lose by more, despite the Clarets’ status as a relegation-threatened struggler in the Premier League.
Hasenhuttl then named six changes dropping Armando Broja, Romain Perraud, Lyanco, Stuart Armstrong, Moi Elyounoussi and Yan Valery at the Amex Stadium.
However, he denied it being in response to poor performances and instead suggested it was to facilitate his change in formation.
“It was a response to the shape we wanted to play today and the shape,” Hasenhuttl told the Daily Echo.
“Very often the players I take is based on tactical things, what I try to change and we know what hurts them.
“They (Brighton) also changed their shape today, they also played a back four and tactically it was interesting for the whole game. In the end, I’m happy we took a point.”
Saints found themselves down to a Danny Welbeck opener inside 90 seconds, after just two days of preparation for the visit to Brighton.
It looked like a continuation of the Thursday night horror when Mohammed Salisu put through his own net before half-time, and would have been but for James Ward-Prowse heroics.
Having had so little time to prepare, Hasenhuttl admitted the early goal “definitely” made it even more frustrating.
“But even there I was full of belief that we can achieve something here,” he added.
“We knew it was a tough game but we have had a very good history in this stadium, since I was here we have never lost and always won here. Today we also had full belief.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Graham Potter praises Brighton stars as they play new roles and better performances #BHAFC
People laughed when the prospect of Leandro Trossard playing at wing-back for Albion was first put to Graham Potter.
The question seemed light-hearted and the answer certainly was.
In the immortal words of comedy great Bob Monkhouse, they are not laughing now.
The Belgium international has responded to a very wide role by scoring in each of his last two games.
He also threw his diminutive frame in the way of a shot at Tottenham to possibly save a goal in his side’s 1-0 win.
Trossard is one of at least three Albion players who featured in the recent awayday trilogy in roles which were new or very nearly new to them.
Alexis Mac Allister played as a false nine at Spurs, only the second time he had filled that role in his career.
And Marc Cucurella is operating on the left of a back three for the first time in his career.
Potter has been delighted with the attitude shown by players given new roles.
He still recalls his light-hearted reply when it was pointed out Trossard had played wing-back for his country.
At the time, he said a team would need to be sure of a very large possession share to play him in that role.
Reminded of that, Potter smiled and said this week: “Psychologically, if he is down there defending in a low block, I’m not sure that’s great for him.
“But he is honest enough to match a full-back or match a wing-back.
“That is something he can do quite comfortably.”
Potter sees the irony that Trossard has started scoring again now he has chalk on his boots.
But, equally, he appreciated that block by the Belgian in his own box.
He said: “He has played at wing-back for his country.
“Obviously you want to try and have him further up the pitch than a defensive wing-back.
“It is up to the team to ensure that happens.
“There is probably a Plan B if he is not in the right position defensively because he is attacking.
“He can’t be in two places at the same time.
“I thought his all-round defensive attitude has been fantastic.
“He does his bit wherever he plays, in fairness to him.
“He doesn’t look like the natural defender because of the type of player he is.
“But, in fairness, he does that bit.
“At Tottenham, that block was sensational.
“It probably helps us win the game just as much as his goal.”
Potter says players will accept new challenges if they see what the thinking is.
He added: “They have been brilliant. There has been no negativity at all.
“I think the key is that they understand what you are doing and why.
“It’s not just a case of ‘play there or else’ type of thing.
“It’s an idea and then there is the plan and how they fit it into it.
“All those guys are really open-minded and want to help the team.
“I think they have done it really well.
“Marc has been a little bit out of necessity but also because of the qualities he has.
“He is able to play in a left centre-back position but he plays it as Marc Cucurella plays it.
ENOCK MWEPU SAYS BRIGHTON HAVE TOP-TEN TARGET
BRIGHTON TARGET WSL TOP FOUR AND NEW HOME GROUND
“Even against (Riyad) Mahrez (at Manchester City on Wednesday), defending relatively big spaces and one-versus-one, he did it really well and then still contributes to what we are trying to do.
“He did it against Chelsea away, Chelsea at home, Arsenal away, Tottenham away, so he has shown great quality.
“Leo, funnily enough, we have been trying to get more goals and more assists from him and played him more central.
“And ironically, he scored two from the wide positions.
“He did it slightly differently in terms of the role he had to play defensively for both games, Arsenal and Tottenham.
“But again he did it well.
“And Alexis is one of those players that has such a really good understanding of the game that pretty much you could play him anywhere and he knows what to do.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Graham Potter admits Manchester City deserved win against Brighton #BHAFC #MCFC
ALBION boss Graham Potter admitted Manchester City deserved to win the match despite his side's brave defending.
In the first half Albion got men behind the ball and were able to keep the Premier League champions at bay.
However, in the second half the Citizens came out knowing a win would take them top of the table and were able to break down Albion's stubborn defence.
Two deflected goals from Riyad Mahrez and Phil Foden set the hosts up for victory before Bernardo Silva capped off the scoring in the final ten minutes.
Potter believed his side defended well in the match but knows that City deserved to win the match.
After the game, Potter said: "They're a fantastic team, we know that.
"They played really well, deserved to win to be fair.
"We defended really well in the first half with our shape and discipline.
"We are disappointed in ourselves with how we were with the ball and we could have been a little bit better.
"They make it so difficult. Their pressing is really good.
"Disappointed with how we were on the ball. You have to be perfect to come here and get something and we weren't.
"In the end, even I think it was a little bit fortunate with how they got their first goals came, you have to say over the course of the ninety minutes they deserved to win."
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Brighton boss demands more from players for Manchester City trip #BHAFC
ALBION boss Graham Potter believes Saturday’s win at Tottenham was their best display in his three years at the club – but he has told his players they will need to be even better at Manchester City.
A week after the Seagulls beat Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium, they repeated the trick across north London thanks to Leandro Trossard’s 90th-minute winner.
The fixtures do not get any easier, though, with Albion heading to Manchester to take on Pep Guardiola’s Premier League pace-setters on Wednesday night.
“I was really proud of the players,” said Potter. “It was a really good performance, probably one of the best, if not the best, in my time at the club.
“You have to have that level of performance if you are going to get a result at Tottenham. Historically it’s not easy for us to go there and get a win.
Brighton and Hove Albion manager Graham Potter, credit Simon Dack
“The players gave everything on the day, and that gives you a chance to get a result. Our supporters were brilliant and it was a really good day for the club.
“It gives you confidence, I guess. We’ve played some good games this season, we’ve taken a step forward I think.
“But the past is the past and you have to start again, against an absolutely fantastic side. I would say we’ll have to be even better than we were against Spurs. That’s the challenge.
“It’s very rare you get the opportunity to play against the very best in sport, so while it’s an incredible challenge it’s also exciting. We’ll go there and do our best.”
City will host the Seagulls on the back of their gruelling Champions League tussle with Atletico Madrid and the 3-2 FA Cup semi-final defeat by Liverpool.
But Potter added: “I don’t think any time is a good time to play them, in terms of how they are as a team.
“In the game at the weekend you saw their qualities. You admire them just as much in defeat as when they are winning games.
“They had a tough two games against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, you can’t imagine how tough that is, in between two Liverpool matches.
“To recover from 3-0 down at half-time and play the second half as they did, the way they acted was very, very impressive.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Antonio Conte, Eric Dier and Hugo Lloris agree on Tottenham’s issues against Brighton #THFC #BHAFC
Tottenham saw their solid form come to an end when Graham Potter's side…
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Graham Potter praises Brighton’s 1-0 win at Tottenham #BHAFC #THFC
And he felt they were worthy winners at Tottenham.
Leandro Trossard struck in the 90th minute to secure a 1-0 success.
The three points were the first Albion have secured away to Tottenham in the Premier League era.
Albion won at Arsenal last week but head coach Potter said: “I thought the performance was a step up.
“The players were incredible.
“Work rate and understanding and discipline and aggression and quality, everything you need.
“It felt like we had a good organisation and then an attitude to just run and defend and then be brave when we had the ball as well.
“I thought we asked some questions of Spurs.
TOTTENHAM 0 BRIGHTON 1 - HOW IT HAPPENED
“It wasn’t like a smash and grab game.
“We tried to press high, we tried to win the ball back, we tried to construct our attacks.
“We are playing against a lot of world class players and a team that is in a great moment."
Albion have bounced back from a run of one point and one goal in seven games to set a club record for away wins in a top-flight season.
Potter said: “We knew we had to be good and we were today.
“You can see historically how difficult it is for Brighton and Hove Albion to win at Spurs.
“It’s a great day for the club.
“Three points, clean sheet, 40 points with six games to go.
“It’s not so bad considering it was Armageddon three games ago!”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Antonio Conte warned Tottenham players against strong Brighton side who beat Arsenal #THFC #BHAFC
Tottenham have put themselves in a great position to secure a top-four berth…
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Graham Potter backs Robert Sanchez to reach highest level #BHAFC
Robert Sanchez has been told he can reach the “very highest level”.
Sanchez has been speculatively linked – along with other goalkeepers - with interest from Newcastle, although their reported £20 million valuation of him looks low.
Seagulls boss Graham Potter said: “I don’t know what headlines he has had but from our perspective it’s quite clear that he has the capability to play at the very, very highest level. He has got that potential.
“The only thing that’s missing is the games and the experience which playing in the Premier League, especially in front of crowds, can really help.
WHY PREMIER LEAGUE TIME WAS RIGHT FOR MOISES CAICEDO
“He has got the capacity to make world class saves.
“I’m just delighted for him that he has been able to make them and help us win a game of football.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Brighton’s Adam Webster gives update on injury absence #BHAFC
Adam Webster has revealed he can put no date on his return from injury.
The defender has not played since the defeat at Manchester United two months ago tonight.
He initially had a groin injury but has since been hindered by a calf issue.
Albion have picked up just one point in the seven games he has missed.
Fans are hoping to see him return on Saturday at Arsenal, where he scored in a 2-1 win two seasons ago.
But Webster today told Sky Sports: “I’ve set a few dates from his injury and had a couple of setbacks.
“Obviously I didn’t meet those dates so it became even more frustrating for me.
“I think now it is just about taking it day by day and just seeing how I am improving each day.
AARON CONNOLLY IMPRESSES HIS MIDDLESBROUGH BOSS
“Hopefully it won’t be too long but I don’t really want to put a date on it any more.
“I’ve had a couple of setbacks and I don’t want that to happen again.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Brighton confirm ACL injury for Poland International Jakub Moder #BHAFC
The Poland international has ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament.
The injury ends his season and potentially puts his place at the World Cup in doubt.
The club say the injury “will rule him out for a significant period of time”.
Moder suffered the injury during yesterday’s draw with Norwich City and was further assessed today.
Albion boss Graham Potter said: “This is a devastating blow for Jakub.
"He has made such good progress for us this season and had just played an integral part in helping Poland qualify for the World Cup with victory over Sweden.
“Everyone will want to know how long he will be sidelined.
“It’s too early to speculate other than to say he faces a significant period of rehabilitation.
“Naturally he will have all the support from the club during his recovery.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Graham Potter gives verdict as Brighton draw with Norwich City #BHAFC #NORWICHCITYFC
Graham Potter praised much of Albion’s performance in their 0-0 draw with Norwich.
But he was disappointed with another blank at the Amex.
The Seagulls have failed to score in their last FIVE fixtures at home.
Their latest blank came despite 30 goal attempts and 11 corners.
Only four efforts were on target, including Joel Veltman’s header which forced a brilliant reflex save from Tim Krul.
Neal Maupay fired a first-half penalty over the bar.
Albion boss Potter said: “The performance was good, really good overall.
“The intention was really good in the team.
BRIGHTON 0 NORWICH CITY 0 - H0W IT HAPPENED
“Tried to play forward, we tried to attack, we tried to use our forwards.
“Good width from Tariq (Lamptey) and Solly (March).
“We restricted them to not too much.
GRAHAM POTTER GIVES FIRST INJURY UPDATE ON JAKUB MODER
“But obviously the important bit, and the bit we haven’t done well enough, is put the ball in the back of the net.”