Graham Potter has explained how he has tried to help Neal Maupay through some "difficult" times over the past season after Trevor Sinclair called the forward a "maverick".
Last season the striker was criticised for not being clinical enough in front of goal, based on the number and quality of chances he created.
In an interview with
talkSPORT, former Manchester City player Trevor Sinclair asked how Potter manages a someone like the 25-year-old.
"I have been a fan of his [Maupay] for a while, the quality that he brings. But I think he is a bit of a maverick as well. For me looking at him as a player, I find that very difficult to coach because he is always on the edge," Sinclair said.
"How difficult has that been to toe that line with him but make sure you're not giving him too special treatment where he is going to get a performance and you're not going to lose the rest of the lads?"
Then followed Potter's response to that.
"He [Maupay] is a unique guy, as all of the guys are. You have to understand him. He came from the Championship, he's scored for us in the Premier League.
"Last year, he felt it more than anybody in terms of the media and everybody saying we are not scoring, we are not doing this, and he is a striker and there is pressure.
"We are in a lockdown, you can't see your family, friends, there is no release and it can be difficult, you have to go through that process. Young strikers thrive off scoring goals, they get their confidence and belief from that.
"But the step into the Premier League, the reality is it is harder to score. Especially if you are playing for a team like Brighton, no disrespect to us.
"You have to deal with that. That is a process you have to go through as a person, as a human being. Like everything, nobody is perfect, Trevor, you know that."
When Sinclair replied,
"Thanks," before laughing"
Potter added:
"Ourselves included [as nobody is perfect]."
"We just have to appreciate that and understand how they can help the team."
Source -
sussexlive
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