Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Davy Propper recognises the importance of this weekend’s game away to Stoke City at the bet365 Stadium and knows what to expect from Albion’s next opponents.
The central midfielder pointed to the league table and the proximity between the two sides as adding extra significance to the game with Paul Lambert’s men.
He said, "I am aware of their threat because I went there once to visit my friend, Marco van Ginkel because he played for Stoke.
"I have seen them play there, so I know it's windy, but I think we can handle it.
"I know they are struggling. It's again a big game for us and a good opportunity to stay away from the relegation zone."
The game against the Potters could see the debut of January arrival Jurgen Locadia – a player whom Davy played with back in his native Holland for PSV Eindhoven
He believes that the club-record signing has the quality and traits needed to be a success in England’s top flight and make a difference to Albion’s fortunes in the latter half of the campaign.
"So far he (Locadia) looks good. I think he is almost ready.
"We now have five strikers and they are not all the same. You can change them in a particular situation, which is good.
"That will be very important. We don't concede much. It could make the difference."
“He’s getting fit and he’s ready to play and we’re all excited, because he wants to score goals – he’s talented and he’s played wide at PSV Eindhoven and he’s scored a lot of goals in Holland and I think he’ll be able to do that here as well.”
The central midfield pairing of Propper and Dale Stephens has been a key figure of Chris Hughton’s selection during the Seagulls’ debut campaign in the Premier League.
The Dutchman was full of praise for his positional partner and their relationship, as well as life off the pitch in his new surroundings.
“I think me and Dale do well together, we know each other’s strengths and what we’re capable of and we compliment each other well going forwards.
“I’m playing slightly more defensive than I have in the past, but that’s not a problem for me because you have to be able to adapt and recognise when to attack and when to control the game.
“Away from the field the city is great and the people are very nice with everything you need, so I’m happy here."