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Ferdi Kadioglu heads into Brighton and Hove Albion’s crucial European qualification clash against Manchester United at the Amex Stadium full of confidence after being named the club’s Player of the Season, marking an impressive recovery from a ruptured toe ligament.

“It means a lot to me. Last year was tough because of a silly toe injury. So, I’m really happy to be back and that the fans recognise what I bring to the pitch,” he told The Athletic.

Kadioglu has appeared in 36 of Brighton’s 37 league matches this season, starting 33 of them. The Seagulls’ 1-0 defeat at Leeds United — where Dominic Calvert-Lewin capitalised on Jan Paul van Hecke’s weak back pass — temporarily halted their European ambitions.

“The first half wasn’t our best, but we still created the better chances. These things happen; that’s football. We lost, but we all believe we can get a great result on Sunday. Together with the fans, we can make it a really nice end to the season,” he added.

The Turkish international, who joined Brighton for £25 million from Fenerbahce, netted twice in his first eight appearances before surgery cut short his debut season, which saw Brighton finish eighth — four points away from European qualification. Now a regular at left-back under Fabian Hurzeler, he has become a key figure in the team’s setup.

“As a footballer, you always want to reach the highest level possible, and playing in Europe is a really big deal. It’s huge for the club and for the supporters — it gives them the chance to travel and experience other stadiums,” Kadioglu said.