Davy Propper believes he returns home a different player and stronger character thanks to his time with Albion.

The international midfielder has returned to PSV after four seasons in the Premier League.

He said he had three great years with the Seagulls but admitted last season, when he hardly played and anti-Covid restrictions affected everyone’s way of life, was a challenge.

Propper was in positive mood as he spoke to media at the Philips Stadion.

He said: “I had some great years at Brighton.

“Due to all the measures, the past year was somewhat more difficult.

“The fact that there was the opportunity to return to PSV is great for me.

“The first three years have gone very well and we played many great matches.

“I certainly had a good time in Brighton.”

Propper made 99 starts in the Premier League – but only two of the last 40 fixtures of his time with Albion.

He added: “I look back on a good time in which I experienced a different competition.

“I became stronger there and learned to deal with difficult situations.

“That is why PSV may now get a slightly different player back.”

Albion appear to have been flexible in allowing Propper to leave as they look to ease their wage bill and trim the squad.

Reports in the Netherlands suggest the deal is initially a free transfer but with in-built payments rising to about £2 million if all goes well.

DAVY PROPPER'S MOVE TO PSV MAKES SENSE ALL ROUND

DANNY WELBECK CAN'T WAIT TO THRILL BRIGHTON FANS

The midfielder said: “When it became clear to me that I wanted to return to the Netherlands, there was only one option.

“I am glad that everyone was able to participate in this and that it has come to this.”