Brighton and Hove Albion star makes ‘rivalry’ admission ahead of Crystal Palace clash this weekend

Brighton striker Deniz Undav says he is looking forward to playing in his first grudge match against Crystal Palace in the Premier League this weekend.

Roberto De Zerbi’s men sit sixth in the Premier League, six places and 10 points ahead of Patrick Vieira’s side but form may go out the window for this clash.

The Eagles will be looking for their first win in five games in the Premier League when they host the Seagulls, but draws against Manchester United and Newcastle at home will give them confidence especially with their fans behind them.

Undav who arrived at Brighton from Union SG last summer revealed he was putting in the yards in training so he could start the grudge match this weekend.

He told Sussex Live: “I would love to be in the starting XI for that game. I will work hard this week to get a chance.

“I didn’t know much about the rivalry. I heard about it just now (Saturday) in the dressing room.

“I will need to work even harder than before because it’s a different game to play against Crystal Palace with the rivalry. I hope we get the three points and make the fans proud.”

Both Palace and Brighton come into the game missing key players with Wilfried Zaha fighting a hamstring while Adam Lallana is also a doubt for the Seagulls.