Brighton impressed in 2017/2018, their first season back in the top flight after promotion from the Championship.

Ryan, in his second campaign in England, wants his club to push on even higher in the next 12 months.

The Seagulls meet Watford in their opening fixture.

"We all want to start the season with a bang and get off on the right foot," the Socceroo keeper told the club website.

"Watford was our first point last season in our third match, so ideally we’d like to get off to a quicker start this time. Having the experience from last season, and if we play to the level that we know we can, we can go there confident and hopefully get a win.

“For a club like ourselves, the main aim is obviously to survive, but we’re looking to build on what we did last season and achieve better things this time around. We’ve made a few changes in the transfer window, and I’m confident those changes will strengthen us.

One of the biggest things I learned last season was that teams like Manchester United, Arsenal and Tottenham are human like us - if you can put them under pressure in the right moments, they’ll have difficulties.

“The fear factor of coming up against those types of teams diminished throughout the season, and I’m looking forward to the challenge of facing them this time around.

“Every week is a big match, whether it’s against one of the top teams or a team close to you. As a footballer, what more can you ask for?”

Ryan has strong competition for Brighton's number one shirt with the arrival of Jason Steele from Sunderland, Hugo Keto from Arsenal and David Button from Fulham.

"Niki Maenpaa and Tim Krul provided a great environment last season, and Ben Roberts did a great job in managing all three of us," the Australian said.

"Jason Steele and David Button have come in this season and we’ve got the exact same thing. We’re all getting along very well and most importantly we’re pushing each other every day.

“It’s important to make sure we better ourselves and be in the best possible condition if we’re called upon. I’m thoroughly enjoying the relationships with our new players. I’m always welcoming competition and hopefully it can bring the best out of everyone at the club."