In an interview with Brighton & Hove Albion's official media, Maxim De Cuyper stated that after several experienced players departed this summer, the team has matured as a whole, and the remaining players have the opportunity to shoulder greater responsibility.
Speaking about the team's personnel changes this summer, Maxim De Cuyper said: "I think there have been significant changes because many of the players who left played important roles last season. This gives the players currently in the squad an opportunity to step up and grow into their respective responsibilities. This is also one of the reasons why we are performing well now, because we must take on responsibility. Last season, we relied more on teammates who were accustomed to taking on these responsibilities. It's different now. This change is hard to explain clearly, but we are very pleased that the team is performing well right now."
Maxim De Cuyper's attacking contribution is also one of the reasons for Brighton & Hove Albion's strong results, with four goals to his name this season.
Speaking about his goal-scoring performance, Maxim De Cuyper said: "When I'm in a slightly more advanced position on the pitch, I find myself in positions to score more often. Of course, I want to score more goals, but at the end of last season, I wasn't particularly thinking, 'I must score more goals.' It's just that I'm getting more opportunities now and am in positions to score more regularly."
The unity in the dressing room and strong relationships between teammates have also supported these tactical adjustments.
Speaking about the team's cohesion, Maxim De Cuyper said: "We are a team with many players of different nationalities, and it's not easy to truly unite as one. I think we've done a great job in this regard. I feel like everyone gets along well with each other. Everyone is willing to fight for one another, and for me, that's the most important thing."
This team spirit will be crucial for Sunday's match, and Maxim De Cuyper is acutely aware of the test that Anfield's atmosphere will present to the squad.
Speaking about the away challenge against Liverpool, Maxim De Cuyper said: "You know what kind of atmosphere their fans can create. This will be a new challenge for us, but on the pitch, we just need to continue doing what we've been doing for the past few weeks, and hopefully we can take something from there."