Brighton’s 18-year-old defender shines in 2-1 Premier League victory, drawing praise for his maturity and composure.
Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi hailed 18-year-old Jack Hinshelwood as a “smart” and composed player after his match-winning performance in a 2-1 Premier League victory over Brentford. Hinshelwood, making just his fifth senior appearance and his first at home, scored the decisive goal in the 52nd minute with a powerful header from Pascal Gross’ cross.
The teenager’s impact didn’t stop there; just moments before his goal, Hinshelwood had made a crucial goal-line clearance to deny Yoane Wissa and keep the score level. De Zerbi was full of praise for the young full-back, comparing him to veteran Pascal Gross in terms of his maturity on the pitch.
“He played another great game,” De Zerbi said. “He deserves to be playing now, as he plays like someone older. Yesterday, I said Jack is Pascal Gross’ son because, despite being so young, he plays with the composure and personality of an experienced player.”
Hinshelwood’s impressive showing in his first appearance at the Amex Stadium earned him a standing ovation when substituted 17 minutes from the end. He reflected on the occasion, telling Amazon Prime: “It’s an unbelievable feeling, especially playing here in front of these fans. To get a standing ovation when I came off was brilliant.”
Brighton’s victory marked only their second win in nine Premier League matches, and the club’s eighth-place position remains secure. Hinshelwood, who has been with Brighton since the age of seven, was thrilled with the result and his contribution, stating: “I’m just trying to repay the belief that the fans, players, and manager have shown in me.”
In the match, Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo scored a penalty to put his side ahead, but was forced off with an ankle injury before halftime. His replacement, Wissa, was involved in a controversial moment when he raised his hand into the face of Billy Gilmour, but avoided a red card. Brentford manager Thomas Frank downplayed the incident, describing it as “absolutely handled right by the ref.”
