Davy Propper believes Netherlands team-mate Joel Veltman’s Champions League knowledge will set him up well for life in the Premier League.
Veltman joined Albion in July from Ajax, signing a three-year deal.
The defender won the Eredivisie on three occasions, as well as reaching the Champions League semi-finals in 2019.
Propper said, “He brings a lot of experience – he won a lot of trophies in Holland so he can bring that winning mentality as well. He is very good on the ball but when you come through at Ajax it’s typical that you are good technically. He has the ability to duel and battle as well so he is a typical defender in that sense.
“He has played in the Champions League. For two years Ajax had really good runs in Europe and these games match the intensity of the Premier League. He can bring a lot of good things.”
Being a regular in Europe’s elite competition will provide a solid foundation for becoming the English top-tier according to Propper, who believes that it can sometimes be difficult for players coming from outside the top five leagues on the continent to adjust quickly to the pace of the Premier League.
“It’s a big jump from playing in the Dutch League to playing in the Premier League,” Propper added.
“That’s why his Champions League experience is so important. These games are really amazing to play in and he will have learned a lot from it and he can bring that to Brighton.”
With the new season just around the corner, the 28-year-old wants Albion take advantage of when they’re on top in games and become more ruthless.
“This season I hope this year we can achieve more and win more points, because even towards the end of last season we were still quite close to the relegation zone,” said Propper.
“We didn’t necessarily deserve to be down at the lower end of the table but we struggled to win the games we should have won. Turning draws into wins could make a massive difference this season.
“But the change in style last season has been good for our team. It’s been a completely different approach and everyone enjoys it. In midfield we see a lot more of the ball which is something I like.”