Sarmiento “full of confidence” for Brighton’s New Season

Midfielder, Jeremy Sarmiento is feeling “full of confidence” ahead of Brighton’s new season.

Sarmiento spent last season out on loan at West Bromwich Albion then Ipswich Town, during which he notched up six goals in 43 total appearances, and helped Ipswich claim promotion to the Premier League for the first time in 22 years.

The 22 year-old Ecuador international consequently felt that his confidence has improved, largely helped by the more extensive EFL campaign in terms of fixtures and physicality.

“Coming back from a long season, the confidence is really there,” commented Sarmiento.

“The Championship can be harder than the Premier League because there are more games. There is more intensity, it is physical as well, that is part of the game.

“I tried to make the most of it in the second half of the season at Ipswich.”

“Just try to do well, end well, get back into the Ecuador team and hopefully open a few eyes coming back here.”

Having helped Ecuador reach the Quarter-Finals of Copa America, Sarmiento snubbed the offer of a post-tournament break and instead opted to join Brighton’s pre-season tour of Japan.

That decision paid dividends as he netted the Seagulls’ second goal in a 5-1 friendly win over Kashima Antlers, having held discussions with manager – Fabian Hürzeler about his decision to return early.

“After the Copa America finished, I spoke to the gaffer and he gave me an option of whether I wanted to go on tour with the lads or come back after that.

“Obviously I was so keen to come back and show people what I have been doing in the past year from Ipswich and the Copa America.

“I am full of confidence right now and I just want to bring all here now and show the boss.”

Sarmiento also reflected on his progress over the last 12 months as he concluded: “I think I have matured as a player throughout the year.

“More game time, which is what I was looking for. I was involved in goals and assists, which is part of my game I wanted to improve.

“Now I have scored again and it feels good to be back with a goal.”