Albion boss Fabian Hurzeler says he is “very proud” of how his side finished the Premier League season – but admits consistency must improve if Albion are to push on again next term.
The Seagulls ended their campaign with a thumping 4-1 win away at Tottenham, a result that secured an eighth-place finish – the second-best in the club’s history. While Chelsea’s result meant there will be no European football at the Amex next season, Hurzeler was full of praise for his players and staff.
“I’m very pleased with how we reacted after half-time,” he said. “We showed personality, great character, and a much better style of play. Our positioning in possession improved, and we had better reactions when we lost the ball. So overall I was very pleased with how we finished the season.”
Albion sign off in style - but flickering Euro hope is over
One of the standout moments of the match came from homegrown midfielder Jack Hinshelwood, who scored twice and was praised by his manager for his resilience and dedication.
“Of course, regarding Jack – I’m very pleased and very happy for him,” Hurzeler said. “He went through all the academy teams, suffered in the last period but never gave up. He always showed great performances in training and tried to improve every day. Today he got the rewards for all that effort.”
Reflecting on his first season in the Premier League, Hurzeler admitted it had been a steep learning curve.
“It’s been challenging, but we went through it together,” he said. “We faced adversity and showed personality and character. I’m very proud of the team and how we performed. We collected a high number of points – in many other seasons, it would’ve been enough for Europe.
“But I’m happy we always stuck to our style of play. We never lost it. We always had high intensity, showed courage in possession. We’ve built a foundation – and on that we must continue building. The main point for next season is consistency. Consistency in results, consistency in performances – that’s where we must improve.”
Asked whether he had paid attention to other results that ultimately sealed Brighton’s fate outside the European places, the head coach was unequivocal.
“No, no, no. I was in my tunnel when I coached my team,” he said. “I can’t have distractions. I said before the game – focus on what you can influence. That’s all we can do.”
