‘One of the best’ - Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi makes big Newcastle United claim

Brighton and Hove Albion boss Roberto De Zerbi hailed his side’s performance against ‘one of the best’ teams in the Premier League. The Seagulls men beat Newcastle United 3-1 at the Amex Stadium following a hat-trick from 18-year-old Evan Ferguson.

The Republic of Ireland international opened the scoring in the first half when he capitalised on a mistake from Nick Pope. Ferguson then beat the Magpies goalkeeper from outside the box in the 65th minute before adding his third shortly after via a shot that deflected in off Fabian Schar.

Speaking to the media after the match, De Zerbi described the victory as one of Brighton’s best performances since the Italian took charge in September last year.

“I’m happy about the reaction after the West Ham defeat because we didn’t deserve to lose the game,” said De Zerbi. “We didn’t play a great game against West Ham but I think it was enough to win. We are unlucky.

“Today we played one of the best games in my time because we have to consider the opponent and the opponent is one of the best in the Premier League. [They are] incredibly physical. I’m very happy.”

De Zerbi revealed his disappointment at Callum Wilson’s consolation goal for United during stoppage injury - but it was the striker at the other end that grabbed the 44-year-old’s attention.

“Newcastle is a fantastic team but we played very well for 90 minutes,” De Zerbi added. “I’m sorry that [Callum] Wilson scored because we conceded a goal in a small mistake. I’m sorry for it but it is done. It is a small mistake and it was a shame to concede that goal but it is done.”

“[Evan] Ferguson scored three goals and he played very well. Not only the goals. He played 90 minutes for the team, with and without the ball. He understood very well the right positions in the first half and also Joao Pedro played very well. It was fantastic, the attitude of the players.”

The Premier League season pauses for the two-week international break before Brighton take on Manchester United at Old Trafford. Meanwhile, Newcastle will be looking to end a run of three straight defeats when they welcome Brentford to St James’ Park.