Brighton can return to the big stage, says Kayal

FOOTBALL BERAM Kayal is confident he can realise his Premier League dream with Brighton after signing a contract extension until 2019.

The Israeli midfielder is currently sidelined with an ankle injury but he has made a big impact since joining the Seagulls from Celtic in 2015.

Kayal, 28, was the first player signed when manager Chris Hughton took charge of the team and he played a key role in Brighton reaching the Championship play-off semi-finals last season.

Kayal said: “I am so happy to stay at the club. For the last two years everything has been going well and I’m enjoying every moment.

“I’m happy to sign a new deal and stay for the long-term and hopefully we can achieve our goal.

“This club has a lot of potential and I want to play a big part and help my team-mates when I return.”

Kayal has scored three goals in 72 appearances for a team pushing for the Premier League. They currently sit two points behind leaders Newcastle.

He said: “There was always going to be speculation about my future, because I was coming to the end of my contract here, but when you sign a contract you need to be happy and feel 100 per cent sure in what you want to do with your future.”

Kayal admits he feels at home at the club owned by Tony Bloom. “My family are happy here,” he said. “They left Israel and are enjoying every moment in Brighton. But the most important thing is that I’m enjoying my football.”

Hughton said: “Beram thoroughly deserves his new contract. He is a great professional and an important member of the team, on and off the pitch.”