Roberto De Zerbi talked about Moises Caicedo’s new contract, choosing Jason Steele ahead of Roberto Sanchez and Pascal Gross’s contribution following Saturday’s 4-0 win over West Ham United.
On Moises's new contract…
Moises Caicedo has committed his long-term future to the Albion by agreeing a new contract that runs until 2027, with a club option for an extra year. ✍️
— Brighton & Hove Albion (@OfficialBHAFC) March 3, 2023
🤝 @FirstTouchGames // #BHAFC 🔵⚪️
“Caicedo on Saturday was back at the standard of performance we saw before the transfer window. The new contract will help him stay relaxed. For us he’s a very important player.
“He suffered during the transfer window; it was a difficult moment for him. I can understand, he is very young at 21. When you are older you live better with these situations, but he is a good guy who always worked well in training and now he is back like he was before the window. For us this is great news because we need him to help us achieve our targets. He wants to fight to win trophies and play in the Europa League.”
On choosing Jason Steele…
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“I’m sad for Robert [Sanchez] because with him I have one of the best relationships but my job is to coach and you have to be honest and clear. At this moment Jason is closer to my idea in terms of playing with the ball at his feet and build-up and deserves to play.
“But I think Robert can arrive at the same level. They have different characteristics, but Robert is a good guy who will want to improve in this aspect.
“I love the competition in my dressing room. The right competition can help players improve. I have two very good goalkeepers and I will see in the future who will be in the first XI.”
54 Premier League goal contributions for Pascal Gross…
“He is one of the best players I have had in my career. He can play everywhere on the pitch and he is fantastic in terms of attitude and passion. He is clever and understands different tactical situations. I am lucky to have in my team.
“He is a leader like [Lewis] Dunk, [Adam] Lallana and [Danny] Welbeck. They are different but they are all positive guys. The secret of Brighton is not the coach or the style of play. The secret is the part players like Pascal play in the squad.”