Hurzeler puts trust in Brighton's elders

Fabian Hurzeler has held personal talks with James Milner and Danny Welbeck into his leadership group

Mon, 26 Aug, 2024 - 07:47

Chris Hatherall

Brighton’s young head coach Fabian Hurzeler is putting his faith in two senior players who are significantly older than him to drive his team’s success this season.

Hurzeler is only 31 but two of the top performers in his side’s 2-1 victory over Manchester United on Saturday were James Milner, 38, and Danny Welbeck, 33.

Former Manchester United and Arsenal striker Welbeck scored Brighton’s opening goal. Milner rolled back the years with an outstanding performance in a holding midfield role.

Hurzeler has held personal talks with both players to bring them into his leadership group, a clever tactic because it has helped him become quickly accepted within the squad – with his age no longer even a discussion.

He said: “From the first second I recognised that James Milner is a leader. From the first second I realised why he’s had this successful career - because he’s a role model n preparing himself for training and doing his regeneration. He’s very demanding and very honest. This is honesty you don’t see a lot often in football.

“He helps the team through his honesty and by showing his behaviour and professionalism. He gives every training session 100 per cent.

“So, I try to use his knowledge. We have open discussions about different situations in the team, but he knows I make the decisions. It’s a very open relationship.”

Welbeck scored the 100th goal of his career, sliding home a cross from Kauro Mitoma.

Hurzeler said: “Again, Danny is a role model. I can learn from him because he went through experiences I never made as a player. That’s why I’ve had some talks with him. I share my opinions, and he shares his.

“He’s a great teammate, a connector who tries to help everyone. He’s always paying attention, including in the locker room. For me it’s a joy to work with him and to have good conversations with.”