Brighton’s Jack Hinshelwood thrives as a No 10 to ignite Europe push | OneFootball

Jack Hinshelwood’s switch to a No 10 role has ignited Brighton’s push for Europe, capped by a 35-second opener in a 3-0 win over relegated Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Head coach Fabian Hurzeler advanced the 21-year-old from midfield in February, when one league win in 13 had left them 14th. His strike was the fastest Premier League goal in the club’s nine seasons, eclipsing Alexis Mac Allister’s 49-second effort against Aston Villa. Lewis Dunk scored after five minutes and Yankuba Minteh added the third on 86.

Since the change, the England Under-21 international has three goals and two assists in 10 games, yielding seven wins and 22 points. Brighton are seventh.

It was his third goal in as many matches, following the 3-0 defeat of Chelsea and the 3-1 loss at Newcastle.

Hurzeler praised his awareness and constant runs into the box, noting that this movement creates chances for him and space for team-mates.

“In certain moments, you get an understanding of what is missing and we had the feeling we missed occupying the box better, making more runs from in behind,” Hurzeler told The Athletic.

Hurzeler, who signed an extended contract this week, has been credited with identifying Hinshelwood’s fit at No 10. Mats Wieffer has been shifted to right-back under him and missed Wolves with an ankle injury. Hinshelwood signed a new deal in March to 2029.

Source: NY Times