Kaoru Mitoma is pleased with the impact he’s had for Albion in recent games, but now wants to show what he can do when from the start of a match.
The 25-year-old has made six appearances for us in the Premier League, all from the bench.
“I know my role, and there’s enjoyment in fulfilling that,” the Japan international said.
“However, I always maintain the desire to be in the starting line-up. The team are also doing great right now, so I want to do my best to keep it that way.
“It’s been very enjoyable so far playing in the Premier League. I’ve already noticed myself improving as a player so it also feels satisfying.
“I’m also happy that my wish to play with Brighton has come true. For sure it’s great that I can change the flow of the game coming off the bench.”
Roberto De Zerbi has brought on Kaoru in both his games as head coach and the winger is pleased with how his relationship with his new boss is developing.
“As soon as I met him I knew he was a great guy. I think he’s very bright and is always thinking of the team’s general atmosphere. He is also very strategic so we have a lot of strategy-based training sessions. Things such as build-up play are an example of what he emphasises.
“I’m personally excited to see what type of play we develop next and I want to make sure I can adapt and be a part of his plans too.”
De Zerbi has been impressed with Mitoma’s contributions in the two games he’s taken charge.
You can't stop Kaoru. 😏 @Kaoru_Mitoma 💫 pic.twitter.com/0Y3to5kuuo
— Brighton & Hove Albion (@OfficialBHAFC) October 4, 2022
“Mitoma is a very good player,” he said. “At Liverpool, he and Adam Lallana changed the game, Tottenham was the same. I want to find a way to put on the pitch all of the players that have quality, but it’s only possible to play 11.
“In the future, we can change not the style but positions on the pitch. But it’s difficult to find the best solution because Trossard is a very good player, Gross the same, March the same.
“Mitoma at Liverpool (and in the end against Tottenham) played left-wing and March at left-back. Maybe this can be the solution. I don’t know at the moment.”