Club news

Kayal: We Have To Be Prepared To Perform

By Alex Stedman • 15 February 2018

Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Beram Kayal recognises that the side will have to be at their best in order to progress in the Emirates FA Cup this weekend.

The Seagulls host Coventry City at the Amex Stadium on Saturday afternoon seeking a place in the quarter-finals, and the central midfield man stressed the importance of delivering a professional performance.

He said’ “It’s a big game and we have to be well-prepared, it’s a good opportunity for the club to take another step forwards in the tournament, so hopefully we can do that.

“I’ve played in big cup matches before and you only get one chance at them – either side can win on the day. 

“When I was at Celtic we were the biggest team and everyone wanted to beat us – and Coventry City will have that mentality against us this weekend so we have to be ready.

“The reason we’re still there is because we’ve beaten two good sides and we know we'll have to perform again on Saturday.”

The competition has been an opportunity for manager Chris Hughton to make changes to the side so far this season – and Kayal highlighted that the squad is so competitive that it drives each player on when they get an opportunity.

“The fight for places is intense and the bench is very strong – I’ve been here a few years now and the competition at the moment is so good and brings the level up for everyone in the squad.

“When I get on I try to press high in the latter stages of the game – when Leo came on I tried to make it difficult for the other side. 

“But I think I’m ready to play now – whether that’s in a three or two-man midfield, I’m ready to do whatever the manager asks me to do.”

The former Celtic man claimed the man-of-the-match award in the third round victory over Crystal Palace at the Amex, and played a key role in the win over Middlesbrough in the last round. 

“Hopefully I can be involved this weekend – I’m working so hard to try and get an opportunity to play games and I feel in good shape.

“In the other cup matches I feel like I’ve shown what I can do, I needed a run of games after my injury but now I’m feeling fit and prepared to fight to get into the team.

“The cup is good for those who may not necessarily get many minutes in the Premier League and we want to go as far as possible in the tournament.”