Club news

Steele Attracted By Albion's Upward Curve

By Kieran Cleeves • 21 June 2018

New Brighton & Hove Albion goalkeeper Jason Steele highlighted the club’s progression over recent years as an attractive factor behind his move from Sunderland.

After spending most of his career in the north of England, Steele secured a move to the south coast earlier today, to add competition between the goalposts.

He said, “To come to such a great club that’s been on an upward curve over the last few seasons, I’m really excited and over the moon. I’m looking forward to getting started.

“I’m not silly enough to come in and think I’m going to be the number one. I’m coming here to do as best as I can to push myself and the other goalkeepers on.

“Ultimately, I want to work really hard and get myself in contention. I’ll try my best to do that.

“It’s pastures new, and it's a great challenge and experience for me and my family. We’re really looking forward to coming down here and getting settled. It was a massive part of my decision [moving down south].”

Sunderland endured a difficult season as they were relegated from the Sky Bet Championship last term, and Steele, who made 15 league appearances, reflected on a frustrating 12 months.

“It was tough at Sunderland. The club is going through a tough period at the minute, and I didn’t play anywhere near as much as I wanted to.

“But you don’t use it for experience - in terms of football experience - you use it as a life experience and how to deal with adversity.

“You have to become a better and stronger person, and hopefully that will stand me in good stead.”

Steele featured twice for Blackburn Rovers during Albion’s promotion-winning Championship campaign in 2016/17, and the shot-stopper highlighted the quality of Chris Hughton’s team.

“I remember the game down at the Amex - we lost 1-0 and Glenn Murray scored. They were a proper team, a strong, physical team and really well organised.

“They had some really top players and have carried on improving. The curve that the club’s been on over the last couple of years has been brilliant.

“From the outside looking in, I can only say that I’m really excited and I can’t wait to get started.”