Brighton goalkeeper Mat Ryan admits he's still adjusting to life in the Premier League.

Ryan praised his defenders for their display in the 1-0 win over Newcastle United on Sunday.

The Australian shot-stopper was called into action as early as the second minute, after reacting quickly to keep out Mikel Merino's shot, as Albion secured three crucial points.

He told the club's website, “I was taken a little bit by surprise, it seems to be the theme at the minute.

"I guess in England the defence tend to sit a lot deeper than what I have played with in the past.

"With a defender trying to block it, you don't have a clear view on the ball, and everything happens so quickly.

"I just try to react and thankfully I was able to keep this one out, but the rest of the guys in front of me scrambled well and did a great job.

"I was just sort of there picking up the pieces. Rob Elliot made a fantastic save to keep it at 1-0 and we were really searching for that second one, but we got the three points, so happy days."

The 25-year also spoke about the arrival of Tim Krul, and welcomed the additional competition for the number one spot.

“Tim Krul is a great goalkeeper. In football, at the top leagues, you're going to have competition for every spot.

"That's what makes your team so competitive, and we're all thriving off it. We all get along so well and keep pushing each other."