'I love those games where the crowd is even more intense'

Brighton defender Joel Veltman says Sunday's game against Crystal Palace is unique because of the rivalry between the two clubs.

Albion are winless in their last three against the Eagles and haven't beaten them since February 2024.

"These games, it doesn't matter if we are first or they are bottom," Veltman told BBC Radio Sussex.

"We are quite close to each other now which is exciting. This game is on itself, loads of passion, lots of duels and fighting going on. It's a nice game. I love those games where the crowd is even more intense. Those duels I love to play."

Brighton are only two points above Palace and are seeking their first win in five league games, but Veltman said Fabian Hurzeler's side want a strong finish to the season.

"We do normally end the season well, like with Graham [Potter] and Roberto [De Zerbi]," he said.

"Hopefully we can continue that and we need to because we want to climb up the table. We need three points, we need big performances and that will hopefully start on Sunday."

Listen to the full interview on BBC Sounds