Danielle Carter wants to build on an injury free season by hitting the ground running for Albion.
The 28-year-old suffered ACL injuries in 2018 and 2019 during her time with Arsenal, before playing without any problems for Reading last season.
With that season to build up her confidence, the England international is ready to get back to her best in an Albion shirt.
She said, “Last season I stayed fit for the whole year. I want to do the same this year and help Brighton in the best way.
“In terms of confidence, after I’d made the first big tackle and came away from it unhurt I was able to start building myself back up. I was confident playing after that, but it’s just about getting up to speed after such a long time out.
Pre Season 👍🏾🙂 pic.twitter.com/DviZ2cNOTo
— Danielle Carter (@DanielleCarter) August 5, 2021
“Towards the end of last season I was really starting to step up my game, but then the season finished. I am raring to go now, I don’t think about the injuries and I am hoping for plain sailing.”
Carter has scored four goals in six appearances for her country and is aiming for a recall under new Three Lions boss Sarina Wiegman.
She knows that will only come about with good performances at club level though.
“I would love to get back involved with the England setup. I have got an eye on it, but I know that will only come about if I am performing at the top of my game for Brighton. If I play well, hopefully I get that shot again.
🔎 𝗜𝗻 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴: @DanielleCarter #BHAFC 🔵⚪️ pic.twitter.com/WALjSST7bs
— Brighton & Hove Albion Women (@BHAFCWomen) July 31, 2021
“As a forward I would love to score in every game for Brighton, but my role is bigger than that. I’ve got to share my experience and help the younger players in the group, and I want to raise my own standards, which will ultimately help us as a team.
“As a player I wear my heart on my sleeve, I will always give 100% and I’ve got a winning mentality. Hopefully the supporters will see that and we create moments to remember.”
The FA Cup winner is hoping that the positive atmosphere in the Albion dressing room can play a part in her finding good form.
“The group gets on so well, it was the first thing I noticed. Everyone is really tight, and very supportive. When things get a bit gritty, nobody is slacking off, we demand the best from each other and that togetherness we have allows for that to happen.”
Albion kick off the new WSL season at the Amex on 5 September against West Ham United and a family of four can watch the game for just £10. Click here to buy your tickets.