De Zerbi on injuries, Gross' future and playing at St James' Park
Roberto de Zerbi has been speaking to the media before Brighton travel to Newcastle United in the Premier League on Saturday (15:00 BST kick-off).
Here are the key lines from his news conference:
De Zerbi confirmed forward Joao Pedro has picked up an ankle injury and is unsure if he will feature again this season. However, defender Tariq Lamptey could return to the bench.
On Pedro's injury: "I am sad for that because Joao is important for us, especially in this moment when Julio Enciso and Ansu Fati are not at the top of their level of condition."
On how long before Enciso is back to his best: "He has to stay focused and start next pre-season at his best. He has to accept this moment, playing with team-mates and not alone on the pitch. Because he is younger and he didn't play so many games, he has motivation that is higher than a normal player."
On the team's feelings despite not qualifying for Europe: "We have to be happy or sad depending on the attitude we showed. I think we have worked well and we gave our best - and then we have to accept the result. We are disappointed for the past three months because I think we couldn't compete with our quality, our possibility - but for the rest, we have to proud of this season."
De Zerbi said Pascal Gross, who won two club awards this week, has become "a great, great player and a top player for us" and that "he can play in every big team because he is smart, he is a very good player and his passion and attitude is incredible".
He added: "I hope he can stay with us. I work to help the players to become better. If Pascal has an offer then we can understand. I want him to stay with us, but his level now is higher than two or three season ago."
De Zerbi said he feels St James' Park is "the best stadium in the Premier League" and that "last season is still in my head because of the incredible atmosphere".
He added: "Newcastle and Brighton - we have paid a big, big price [with injuries]. Maybe I speak for myself, but maybe we weren't ready to compete in three or four competitions. We suffered a lot of injuries, and Newcastle did as well. [Newcastle] can fight for the Champions League. Their level is higher than the position they are in at the minute."
Follow all Friday's Premier League news conferences
