Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi praised former Seagulls manager Graham Potter following the club’s win at Chelsea. The Italian joined the South Coast club in September, 10 days after Potter left for Stamford Bridge. Potter was eventually fired by the Blues on April 2nd.
“I’m lucky to be the coach of Brighton and these players. I have to say thanks to Graham Potter because I found a very big and strong team. Now I am trying to give my ideas [to the club],” proclaimed De Zerbi after a 2-1 victory at Stamford Bridge.
Brighton peppered Chelsea’s goal on Saturday
Despite the close look of the score-line, Brighton virtually dominated the match on the road. The visitors had 58% possession and took an incredible 26 total shots throughout the match.
De Zerbi even felt that his team played better on Saturday than in the previous matchup between the two sides. Brighton bullied Chelsea 4-1 at home back in October when Potter made his return to the South Coast.
“It’s an amazing day for us. The result, the performance. This game gives more energy, more confidence, more enthusiasm to finish the season in the best way,” explained the Italian coach. “Now we have to prepare for the semi-final. We’d like to play the final. To do that we’ll have to win.”
De Zerbi excited for massive FA Cup semi-final against Man United
Brighton travel to Wembley to face Manchester United in the FA Cup semi-final next weekend. While facing United is no easy feat, De Zerbi claims that his club is ready for the fight. “We are a serious team with serious players. Nothing changes. We work a normal week. We would like to make our fans happy,” stated the coach.
Under De Zerbi, Brighton have been a formidable team throughout the current campaign. In fact, the Seagulls have only lost twice in the Premier League since the start of the calendar year.
This is a stretch of 13 fixtures that includes Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur, and Chelsea. Along with a strong FA Cup run, Brighton are also looking to qualify for a European competition with a top six Premier League finish.
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