Roberto De Zerbi praised Jack Hinshelwood after the 18-year-old assisted Brighton to a crucial 1-0 win over AEK Athens in the Europa League.
Albion’s injury crisis provided the youngster with the opportunity to make an impression on the European stage for the first time in his career.
The academy graduate barely put a foot wrong as the Seagulls confirmed their place in the knock-out rounds, starting at left-back before moving into midfield for the final 15 minutes.
Worthing-born Hinshelwood, who became the fourth generation of direct descendants in his family to play in the Premier League earlier this year, received high praise from his manager following the victory in Greece.
“Jack is a top player – a really top player because he plays with personality, courage and leadership,” De Zerbi said in an interview with TNT Sports.
“He’s a boss. He’s the next Lewis Dunk, Pascal Gross, Danny Welbeck, or Adam Lallana.
“I am lucky because I have many players with this spirit, passion and soul.”
Albion came through in difficult circumstances to win their third Europa League title in a row after a thrilling 3-2 win at Nottingham Forest. To view our player ratings, please click here.
“Now we want to be first on the table because it’s important.” We could play two fewer games.
“From tomorrow, we have to think about [the game against Chelsea] Stamford Bridge [on Sunday, December 3] because the Premier League is not finished.”
To beat Chelsea, Brighton will ‘have to fight and play better than we did today,’ according to De Zerbi.
“Today, we didn’t play well,” he confessed. “We didn’t play in our usual style, but it’s a difficult time.”
“AEK is an excellent team. This is a difficult stadium to play in.
“It’s a fantastic atmosphere, and we’re not accustomed to playing in this stadium.” We are not in the best physical condition, so it is possible.
“We lacked balance in the first half.” It’s difficult when you’re up against a team that only needs one result. They must triumph.
“In terms of character, we played a great game for our fans.”
The Italian also posed a challenge to Joao Pedro, who scored the game-winning penalty after being fouled in the box. It was the Brazilian’s third successful penalty kick against the Greeks this season, and his fourth overall.
The 22-year-old striker briefly held the competition goal-scoring lead with five goals before being matched by Marseille‘s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang after his hat-trick against Ajax.
“I think he can play better and score more goals,” De Zerbi said of Pedro.
“He has the ability to grow stronger. [Evan] Ferguson, too. During the game, we require our strikers. Our style works well if 11 players stay in the game and keep the ball.”
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