Interviews

Gross: I'll play anywhere to help the team

German relishing another chance to make an impact against Liverpool today.

By Matt Bishop • 30 October 2021

By Paul Hazlewood
Pascal Gross is a big threat for Albion with his set-piece delivery

Pascal Gross insists he doesn’t mind where he plays for Albion ahead of today's match against Liverpool, as long as the team has success and perform well.

The German became a fan’s favourite as a goalscoring number 10, but has since played in a variety of roles – including right-back – under Graham Potter.

Gross’ versatility means he might no longer score as many goals or create as many chances as he did during his stunning first season with the club, but he remains just as integral to the side.

“I'm always happy to score a goal but I'm fine.” said Gross. “Before I came to Brighton I was playing a little bit deeper. Then I played here at number 10. Now I think probably I played a lot of positions - right back, midfield, 8, so I think I play wherever I can help the team. 

“I don't need the glory as long as we have success and are playing well. That's all I care about. I'm a team player. I showed that all my career wherever I have been.

“When I can score I’m really happy but I think my biggest strength is more to create chances and assist goals so I’m more a team player. I really don't care who scores or where I play.”

The 30-year-old’s importance to Potter’s squad means he is now one of the first names on the team-sheet, and will play a prominent role at Anfield today.

After facing Manchester City last weekend, the prospect of facing another of the world’s best sides just seven days later could be a daunting one – but Gross is relishing the challenge.

“We saw last weekend Liverpool punished United – they’re very clinical – so you know you can’t allow yourself to make mistakes because they’re too good.

By Shutterstock / Michael Zemanek
Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool are unbeaten in the Premier League so far this season

“We know we will have to play a really good game – probably our best game to have a chance there, but I think we’re able to do that. We’re a strong group and we’re looking forward to it.”

Jurgen Klopp’s side are yet to taste defeat in the Premier League this season, and Gross is a huge admirer of the German manager and his career up to now.

“Growing up I was all Borussia Dortmund. As a kid, the team I supported was Dortmund with the fans and the stadium. Klopp had some really good times there.

“Obviously Bayern Munich are the best team in Germany -  there’s no question about that – but there were some good years where Dortmund had some fine players and played in big games, like the Champions League final.

“Liverpool now play unbelievable football, they score a lot of goals. They’re really dangerous, really clinical and are solid in defence. I think he is probably really happy with his team at the moment.”