Roberto de Zerbi believes his Brighton side need to start strongly against Everton at Goodison Park tonight.
Brighton ended the year with a 4-2 defeat to Premier League leaders at the Amex on Saturday night. That defeat left the Seagulls 10th in the table.
Everton, on the other hand, picked up a valuable point at the Etihad on Saturday and are preparing to return to Goodison for the first time since they were beaten by Wolves on Boxing Day.
READ MORE: Everton 'enquire' over €40m winger amid Anthony Elanga transfer links
MICHAEL BALL: Everton need to sign another striker despite rectifying strange summer decision
"We have to start the game strongly. I was satisfied with the performance and attitude against Arsenal and I'm positive for tomorrow,” De Zerbi said.
Adam Webster and Danny Welbeck are both unavailable for Brighton tonight, but De Zerbi is delighted to have Alexis Mac Allister back with his squad for the game.
The Argentina midfielder is back with the Seagulls after an extended break following his side’s success in Qatar.
“We are happy for him and now for us he is a very important player. It is better to play with Alexis than without Alexis,” the Brighton boss said.
"It was fantastic the celebrations, it was amazing. I am happy if he wants to stay with us until the end of the season and I think it is better for him.
“For us for sure, but also for him. In this moment to change a team in January can be a problem. For us and also for him."
READ NEXT:
-
Everton campaign group call for 'sit-in' protest at Goodison Park after Arsenal game
-
Demarai Gray makes Everton quality claim amid honest training admission after Man City 'boost'
- Everton new stadium's stunning progress shown in dramatic video
-
Erling Haaland shows true colours against Everton as James Tarkowski anger leads to comical exit
-
Alan Shearer gives verdict on Everton's 'physical' Erling Haaland plan and Ben Godfrey battle
