Roberto De Zerbi says there can be no let-up from Albion at Aston Villa.

Then comes the bit he least likes – several weeks with no matches.

Albion aim for their first ever win before fans at villa Park as they take on a home side who need three points to guarantee a European place.

The Seagulls’ only success at the venue came two seasons ago behind closed doors, thanks to goals from Danny Welbeck and Solly March.

Albion boss De Zerbi said: “In every game, in every training session we have to play seriously all the time.

“We will prepare our best for the next game.

“We leave to Birmingham to win, to play in our way.

“Monday starts the toughest period in my season because without football it is difficult.

“I am looking forward to starting the next pre-season.

“I think we have to work in this holiday because we have to build a new squad.

“I think we don’t need so many players.

“We ae to understand if Caicedo, Mac Allister or I don’t know which players can leave.

“And then we have to bring very good players because next season will be tougher than this one.

“For sure I can tell you we have to have a stronger squad, bigger squad because we will play four competitions and we have to be ready to compete in our way in these competitions.”