Super Eagles defender, Leon Balogun, has opened up about his switch to Premier League side, Brighton.
The 29-year-old completed a free transfer to the Seagulls on Tuesday, claiming he had always followed the club back from their Championship days.
“I always had a dream to play in the Premier League, and Brighton was one of the first teams to show an interest in me,” Balogun told club website.
“I’ve been following English football as much as I can in Germany, and I saw how they got promoted from the Championship.
“I liked the way they played last season in the Premier League too and how they were able to maintain their status. It’s really impressive how they work, not just as individuals, but as a team too.”
Balogun links up with Pascal Gross who settled well at Brighton after also arriving from Germany [FC Ingolstadt 04] last summer.
The attacking midfielder scored seven goals and provided eight assists in the league and was named the club’s Player of the Season.
“I know Pascal Gross. The fans have voted him player of the season and I think he did a brilliant job in Germany.
“He’s not the fastest player, but he’s very intelligent and can play with his left foot and right foot too He runs a lot and works hard for the team.
“I just met the manager [Chris Hughton] and spoke to him on the phone once. He seems like a real gentleman, who is very calm, polite and knows exactly what he wants to do.
“You can see that in the way in which the team performed throughout the season.”
Balogun is expected to play a key role for his country at the World Cup in Russia.
