TheCable

Leon Balogun, Brighton & Hove Albion defender, says he is looking forward to the start of the English Premier League (EPL) with his new club.

The 2018/2019 EPL season is expected to kick off on August 10.

Balogun on Thursday said he hopes to play the “biggest role” to bolster the strength of the team.

The Super Eagles player joined the Seagulls from German Bundesliga side, FSV 05 Mainz, in the summer. He represented Nigeria at the FIFA World Cup in Russia where the Super Eagles failed to reach the round of 16.

The 30-year-old played in all three group D games against Croatia, Iceland and Argentina.

“The EPL league starts very soon and between now and then, it’s about getting up to speed with everyone else as soon as possible,” Balogun was quoted as saying on the club’s official website.

“Then, I want to take it from there, but I’ll give everything I can to improve what this group already has and play the biggest role that I can for the team.

“I was really warmly received on my first day at the club and it’s a nice group.

“My first impressions were very positive, and I feel very comfortable within the group — they all made me feel welcome.”

Brighton will face Watford in their opening game of the season.