Alexis Mac Allister believes Brighton are ‘not far away at all’ under Roberto De Zerbi, after signing a new three-year contract at the club this week. The 23-year-old midfielder agreed a deal to keep him at the Amex until 2025, with the option of another year, having become one of the most important players for the new head coach. And although they are yet to taste victory in five games under the Italian, Mac Allister feels they are close – and might even get it against Graham Potter’s Chelsea this weekend.
Alexis Mac Allister said: “Everyone can see what we’re trying to do under Roberto and as players we really like the ideas he has and what he brings to the team. We need some time to understand his plans even more to win football matches, but we are not far away at all. We’ve been a bit unlucky in the last three games but really like working under him and we will hopefully get that first win on Saturday. It’s going to be a tough match, but we’re excited and looking forward to it.”
The meeting with in-form Chelsea comes a week on from a 3-1 defeat against defending Premier League champions Manchester City at the Etihad. Many observers felt Albion put in their best performance yet under De Zerbi, with Mac Allister showing signs of getting forward from a deeper role. And the Argentine admitted he is happy to play wherever he is asked to, with regular action key to his decision to signing his contract.
Alexis Mac Allister added: “The most important thing for me is to play. It doesn’t matter what position or what role, I just love being out there. I have found a new position as a six and I really enjoy it. I used to play there in Argentina and enjoy playing deeper because I see more of the ball. But I like playing as a 10 or an eight as well. It doesn’t matter to me, I just want to help the team and help my teammates win the game.”
Having arrived at the club in January 2019, Mac Allister is feeling very settled in his surroundings and had lots of thanks to give for that support.
Alexis Mac Allister said: “The people who work here are really supportive and the club wants to keep developing. It’s exciting and why I signed a new deal. My teammates have been amazing ever since my first day. Dunky, Adam Lallana, Steeley – these are just some of the people who have helped me a lot. I’m really grateful for their support. I am so grateful to the fans. They are amazing every time we play, whether we are at home or away. I want to say thank you very much for the support they’ve shown me, I’ve felt it every day I’ve been here. We will all try to get a win [against Chelsea] on Saturday for them.”
