Shane Duffy admitted it has been a 'long year' as he capped a long-awaited return to the AMEX by helping Brighton to a 2-0 victory over Watford on Saturday night.
The Republic of Ireland defender seemed likely to leave the club this summer, having previously fallen out of favour under Graham Potter.
He lost his father in May 2020 and then endured a difficult loan spell at Celtic last season.
But following the departure of Ben White – and with both Joel Veltman and Dan Burn out – he has returned to the starting XI with two fine displays to start the season.
His early header put Brighton in front and speaking after his first home game since July 2020, Duffy told the BBC: 'It's been a long year and I've missed the place.
'The reception from the fans was brilliant all day. It feels like home here and it was great to be back.'
He added: 'You can see from the kick-off we were straight after them and it was the fans who gave us that adrenalin. I'm delighted they are back and I hope it can continue.'
Manager Potter heaped praise on the 29-year-old, who shone in front of watching Ireland boss Stephen Kenny.
Kenny and Duffy spoke following last night's game, with Potter telling reporters: 'I'm really happy for Shane, he's had a really tough year on and off pitch, he's probably learnt a lot from that experience and he's come back in really good way.'
Potter added: 'He's always been someone everyone here loves… since he's been back, he's been fantastic.'