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Roberto De Zerbi is confident that Joao Pedro, who scored a hat-trick, has even more to offer after helping Brighton advance to the fifth round of the FA Cup.
Pedro achieved his first ever hat-trick, helping the Seagulls secure a 5-2 victory against Sheffield United. The team also received contributions from Facundo Buonanotte’s spectacular goal and Danny Welbeck’s late score, adding to their strong performance at Bramall Lane.
The Brazilian striker, a £30million summer signing from Watford, took his tally to 18 for the season in all competitions but De Zerbi wants more.
The Italian expressed that he sees Joao Pedro as a highly promising player and has high hopes for him, even more than what he has currently shown.
“He is performing exceptionally on the field and has been scoring numerous goals, but I believe he has the potential to reach an even greater level. I am determined to help him get there, as I am not only working for Brighton, but also for the development and improvement of my players.”
Last season, Brighton reached the semi-finals in this tournament and are hoping for another successful run. However, they face a demanding schedule ahead with midweek matches in the Premier League and cup, followed by the resumption of their Europa League campaign.
“We try to play every competition in the best way,” he said. “I don’t know the future, in my head there is only one thing, the Luton game on Tuesday evening.
“We must approach each game and competition individually.”
The Blades overcame a 2-0 deficit in the first half and tied the game with goals from Gus Hamer and Will Osula, but they were ultimately outmatched at Bramall Lane.
Last season, they made it to the semi-finals but lost. Now, they can concentrate on their fight to avoid relegation in the Premier League. Their first match is against Crystal Palace during the week.
According to manager Chris Wilder, the upcoming match is challenging, especially since it will be played at our home against a team with a strong playing style.
“If we had restricted their opportunities through our defensive choices and made more effective decisions in the attacking half with higher quality, the game may have been closer and we could have achieved a positive outcome.”
“You cannot receive punishments and expect to win a football game by giving away two penalties at home. However, I am satisfied with how we performed.”
Source: independent.co.uk
