Fabian Hurzeler: Record signing Georginio Rutter can elevate Brighton

French forward Rutter joined the Seagulls from Leeds on Monday for a reported £40million fee.

Albion boss Hurzeler expects the 22-year-old, who arrived in English football from Hoffenheim in January 2023 and featured in two of his former club's opening three games of the season, to integrate quickly.

"We have to wait (and see) how he adapts but he had some games already for Leeds," replied Hurzeler when asked if Rutter could be involved when United visit the Amex Stadium on Saturday.

"He's a little bit German, he's a little bit like from the UK and a little bit French so he has a mix of everything inside his character.

"He's laughing a lot and I think he will be integrated fast in the group and that's the most important.

"On the other side, I am convinced he will help us on the pitch by his attitude working against the ball, by his quality in possession.

"He has something special and I knew him since he played for Hoffenheim, I followed his way. He will be a big, big player for Brighton and I'm happy he's here in the squad."

Hurzeler, 31, became the youngest permanent manager in Premier League history when he replaced Roberto De Zerbi in June.

The ex-St Pauli coach began his tenure with a thumping 3-0 win at Everton, which propelled Brighton to the top of the table.

Despite the dream start, Hurzeler quickly set aside the Goodison Park success as he focuses on his opening home fixture, against Erik ten Hag's United side.

"Of course we are grateful for the start," he said. "We know that it's hard work every game. We try to keep the momentum and it's important to get in the flow.

"I'm very fast back in my business and very fast in focusing on the next game.

"I'm looking forward to meeting our fans because it's about making them proud wearing the Seagulls colours and it's our responsibility to bring an intensity, an energy on the pitch that transports to the supporters.

"We try to make them a present with a win but we know we have a tough opponent.

"Manchester have great players, they have a great coach and it will be a big, big challenge for us."

Winger Yankuba Minteh is available to play after being forced off on Merseyside due to concussion protocols.

Attacking midfielder Brajan Gruda could join Rutter in making a Brighton debut, while Pervis Estupinan, Tariq Lamptey and Evan Ferguson have returned to training following injuries and will be assessed. 

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