Iran’s Jahanbakhsh Reveals Why He Was Emotional after Goal for Brighton
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Brighton and Hove Albion Iranian winger Alireza Jahanbakhsh has revealed why he was so emotional after his goal for Brighton against Bournemouth on Saturday.
The Seagulls defeated the struggler 2-0 thanks to goals from Jahanbakhsh and Aaron Mooy Bournemouth at the Amex Stadium.
Jahanbakhsh, a £17m signing from Dutch club AZ Alkmaar in 2018, was overcome with emotion following his early opener.
His teammates were delighted for him and tears were in his eyes as he fell to the floor and attempted to gather his thoughts as the home crowd were finally able to celebrate with him.
The 26-year-old joined Brighton 18 months ago and was the Dutch golden boot winner with AZ Alkmaar having notched 21 goals before playing at the World Cup for Iran.
The Premier League however proved much harder as Jahanbakhsh failed to score or claim as assist in 25 appearances last campaign. Against Bournemouth he was one of seven changes from Albion's Boxing Day loss at Tottenham.
“It took longer than I expected to get my chance this season and I was determined to grab it,” said Jahanbakhsh, who was told he would be starting for the first time under Graham Potter on Friday. “I’ve been training well day in day out and every time I get my chance I want to make an impact.
"It has been a very tough time for me and my family. Last season was not the best season for me. This time, half the season I did not play. But now I'm settling down, I like the city and I have a very good relationship with the boys.
"I had ups and downs last year, trying to settle," he added. "This season it felt good with the new manager. He wanted to use different players, but I've been doing well in training and was ready for my chance."
