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De Zerbi: You will see a different Albion against Marseille

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Head coach says he takes responsibility for Villa defeat but promises a reaction in the Europa League.

By Bruce Talbot • 30 September 2023

By Manjit Narotra
Roberto De Zerbi thanks the 2981 travelling fans at full-time.

Roberto De Zerbi apologised to Albion fans and says he takes full responsibility for Saturday’s 6-1 defeat to Aston Villa.

But he promised that they would see ‘a different Brighton’ when we return to action against Marseille on Thursday in the Europa League.

Ollie Watkins did the damage with a hat-trick and although Ansu Fati’s first goal for the club which made it 3-1 briefly raised hopes of a fightback it was little consolation.

De Zerbi said, “We played a very bad game, without mental energy I thought. The biggest responsibility for the defeat is mine.

“In the second half we started better but after that we conceded three goals without a reaction – I didn’t like it. You have to be ready to give your best but we can’t lose every tackle, every duel and every second ball.

By Manjit Narotra
Adam Webster heads clear during the first half at Villa Park.

“But they are great guys and there are great people in our dressing room. We will work to reach the right level. We are sorry for our fans, but on Thursday you will see another Brighton.”

De Zerbi believes the players will get used to the hectic schedule they are experiencing this season.

“It’s very tough to play every three days, but we have to adapt," he added. "We want to compete in every competition and we have to show that we are ready to do that.

“I’m trying to manage the squad in a different way because not many players are used to so many games. I believe in my players and I have big confidence with the people inside the dressing room. We are suffering but today was not the true Brighton. On Thursday you will see another Brighton.”