Aussie stopper a proud centurion

Ryan reached the landmark in the recent 1-1 draw at home to Watford, and recounted three of his most memorable games in a Seagulls shirt.

He said, “It’s an amazing feeling. Since I was a young boy, I’ve wanted to try and play at the highest level and chase my dreams.

“To have achieved that at Brighton is very special, and in my time here I’ve been able to get to know the club, share experiences and create so many memories.

“They’ve been some of the best moments of my life up until now and it’s a period I’ve thoroughly enjoyed. I’m trying to do my best week in week out to represent the club the best I can, and create even more memories.

“My most memorable games so far would include beating Manchester United at home in the first season I was here, which guaranteed our safety for the following season.

“Then it would be my first FA Cup game against Millwall and winning that penalty shoot-out, as well as that FA Cup semi-final against Manchester City. They are the three games that spring to mind for me.”

Attention turned back to the present day and a trip to Bramall Lane to face high-flying Sheffield United this weekend, and Ryan is expecting to face a defensively resolute Blades side.

“They are where they are in the table for a reason, and have performed very well against every side that they’ve played.

“I’ve never been to Bramall Lane before, but a few of the boys have in the past - just like every game in this league, we’re expecting a tough match.

“They are a team that tries to stay nice and compact, are quite direct, and try to win the second balls. It’s an aspect where we’ll have to be better than them in order to get a result.” 

Ryan also commented on the arrival of Alexis Mac Allister after the midfielder was recalled from his loan spell at Boca Juniors to join up with the Seagulls on the final day of last month, and the Socceroos shot-stopper is backing the Argentine to have a big impact between now and the end of the season. 

“We’ve only had a few sessions together and being a goalkeeper I don’t get to see too much of what he does in training, but we brought him here for a reason.

“He’s a technical player with a lot of experience, and is someone that’s played for the Argentina senior team. Hopefully he’ll be a valuable addition to the squad. He comes across as quite a down-to-earth person, and has a hardworking mentality. We’ll be looking to use his mentality in the team.

“He’s already taken a liking to Galgo [Ezequiel Schelotto] and Jose [Izquierdo], who both speak Spanish. I’ve had a few talks with him in Spanish too, along with Martin Montoya and Bernardo.

“Even the guys that don’t speak Spanish have all been great with him and welcomed him into the squad. I’m sure it will be a smooth transition for him.”