Moises Caicedo has been told he must make a strong start to next season.

The Albion midfielder is away with Ecuador as they prepare for the World Cup finals in November.

He has impressed in the Premier League and national team boss Gustavo Alfaro wants to see more of the same.

Alfaro has guided Ecuador to Qatar with the Seagulls star a key man.

Caicedo said: “He was very happy because he told us he wanted to go to a World Cup.

“He told us more than ever to concentrate on our clubs, do things very well, try to play every match to be in good form for the World Cup. We need to be playing.”

PREMIUM: IN-DEPTH WITH CAICEDO AS HE RELISHES LIFE IN ENGLAND - AND THAT SONG 

Caicedo, who shone again overnight in a 0-0 draw with Mexico, is among the Ecuador players carrying the hopes of their nation.

He says those demands will keep him on his toes – and have helped him cope with the pressures of the Prem.

Caicedo added: “There are lots of players fighting for places with Ecuador and, at the moment, I am there.

“I like helping the team and being a fundamental part of my national team. That responsibility has helped me.

BRIAN OWEN SELECTS MEMORABLE MOMENTS OF BRIGHTON'S 2021-22 SEASON

“I’ve come here and there is a lot of pressure in games but I feel like I have handled it very well, as I have in my national team.

“There are always things to improve and I am hoping to keep learning a lot to be a top player in the Premier League and the world.”

See The Argus today for an in-depth interview with Moises Caicedo - also available online for subscribers