Fabian: Fans will be so important for us this season

Our head coach and chief executive and deputy chairman Paul Barber met more than 300 supporters at our annual pre-season forum.

Bruce Talbot

2024-08-13T19:55+01:00

Fabian Hurzeler received a standing ovation from Albion fans at Tuesday's forum at the Amex.

Fabian Hurzeler explained the importance of Albion’s fans as he looked ahead to his first season as a Premier League head coach.

Fabian and chief executive and deputy chairman Paul Barber were at the Amex on Tuesday to answer questions for an hour from more than 300 Albion supporters at our annual pre-season Fans Forum, which was broadcast live on BBC Radio Sussex and hosted by Albion commentator Johnny Cantor.

Fabian, who got a standing ovation when he arrived at the Mayo Wynne Baxter Suite, stressed how vital Albion supporters will be in what is our eighth season in the Premier League.

“It’s an incredible honour to be part of the club. It’s a community, a family and I’d like to thank you for the warm welcome. From the first second I felt your love and passion.

More than 300 Albion fans attended Tuesday's Fans Forum.

“Your support will help us achieve our goals. I want to play football that makes you proud – with a team that is committed, resilient and always aiming higher.

“I know how important the club is [for our fans]. At the Amex or away I think your voice and your energy will take us forward. We will give everything and fight for every point to make you proud. We will try to build on the foundations of the last few years which have been immense. With your support, the potential of the squad and the commitment of the club we can make it a season to remember.”

Fabian answered questions on several topics including the structure of the team and the attitude of his players, the style of play; his ambition to take the club back into Europe; and whether he plans to get a seagull tattoo!

Paul spoke about topics including the process of appointing Fabian and why he feels any plans by the Premier League to stage games overseas would be a 'step too far.'