Brighton achieve European dream and make club history: Transfer-linked Alexis Mac Allister and Moisés Caicedo address fans after 'amazing' achievement
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For the first time ever, the Sussex seaside club will be competing in a European competition next season. Barring a miraculous goal difference swing, Roberto De Zerbi’s side will be going toe-to-toe with some of the world’s biggest clubs in the Europa League.
Goals from Evan Ferguson and Pascal Groß sealed the club’s Euro dream against a dogged Southampton side, that nearly broke Albion hearts with a second-half fight-back.
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Hide AdHere’s how the players reacted, in interviews with the club on and off the pitch following the full-time whistle.
Club legend and captain Lewis Dunk said: "We've come a long way from where we were. I didn't think it could happen when I made my debut. We made it, we are in Europe so we're buzzing. A massive thank you [to the fans]. You stuck by me my whole career. You make noise home and away. We couldn't do it without you, so this is for you.”
He added: “If you told me when I first joined that this football club would be in Europe, I probably would have laughed at you. What a journey we've been on. The chairman has done an incredible job and built an incredible club. I've enjoyed the journey. It's been a pleasure. I'm one of the lucky ones who has been here the longest. I've been able to enjoy every moment of it. It's been a great ride.
"It's gonna be good fun [in Europe]. It's something you always want to do as a footballer and play at the highest level you can. As time goes on, you don't know if you are going to make it but thankfully we have done it as a group. A humble, well stuck together group has achieved something historic for this football club. It's been a pleasure to lead the boys.”
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Hide AdTeenage superstar Evan Ferguson said: "It's not bad. We've worked all season towards that. It's a credit to us, what we do everyday and what we've achieved. Hopefully we have a good Europe run next season.
"It's a credit to the fans. They've been through the different leagues and we've brought them up to Europe so I'm sure they'll be as delighted as us.
"He [Roberto De Zerbi] just gives you confidence. You know what you’re doing and what your job is. He doesn’t care what age you are, you’ve got to put a shift in. That's the attitude you have – if you can play, you can play.”
Versatile German international Groß – a vital cog in the Brighton machine – said: “It's a dream come true for all of us, the whole club. It's the best day in my football life. Thank you for all your support this season. Support us again on Wednesday and I hope it will be a really special night.
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Hide Ad"We worked really hard this season. We've been climbing up the hill all year – so close to the target but so far away as well. I'm so glad we did it today. I think we were good most of the game. A little bit sloppy at the start of the second half. We deserved to win the game.