Kjell Scherpen signed for Brighton & Hove Albion in the summer transfer window, leaving Ajax after joining them from FC Emmen in 2019.
Whilst it was always unlikely the 21-year-old goalkeeper would play a big part for the Seagulls this season, he had expected to get a little experience to help his progress.
Unfortunately, an ankle injury scuppered those chances and he’s instead picked up 270 minutes in the PL2. De Telegraaf have managed to get an interview with Scherpen, whilst he’s away with the Netherlands U21 squad.
Much of that chat was related to his injury and how it came at a bad time for him, shortly after the move to Brighton.
The Dutch newspaper quote him as saying: “It was in my very first practice match for the club. As I was about to kick a back pass, a player came from the other side and tapped my boot, kicking me into the ground. My ankle couldn’t handle that very well.”
Out for six weeks, the stopper was extra careful with his return, knowing ankle injuries can be serious problems for goalkeepers: “For a keeper it is extra important that the ankle recovers well, because of jumping and landing. Otherwise you will continue to struggle. It went quite well, but the injury was very bad for me. I couldn’t show myself the way wanted. And I was behind. I’m trying to catch up now. Since I got fit again, things are going well. Hopefully I can continue that line.”
Brighton’s first choice, Robert Sanchez, is suspended for the upcoming match against Aston Villa.
Scherpen is an option, but so is Jason Steele, and it’s unclear who will be given the opportunity.
The Dutchman, obviously, hopes it’s him: “It will be an interesting one. My rhythm is good, so who knows. It would mean my debut in the Premier League, which would be great of course.”
