It seems Brighton & Hove Albion are finally taking the battle to Newcastle United. Chris Hughton did a commendable job of making Brighton the first team to get the promotion in the Premier League despite the money splashing Newcastle United dominating the Championship all season.
Though they eventually finished second in the Championship, it hasn’t affected their stature by any means, as reportedly the Seagulls have already secured the signature of Bundesliga ace Pascal Groß. The central midfielder has earned rave reviews this season despite his side, FC Ingolstadt 04, unable to survive relegation.
Confirming the deal, Brighton boss Hughton said, “We are delighted that Pascal has opted to sign for us. He will give us a different and new option going into the new season… He offers something different to our existing midfielders, as an attacking midfielder in a more advanced position, operating behind the forward line.”
Brighton have some seasoned central midfielders Dale Stephens, Oliver Norwood, Steve Sidwell and Biram Kayal, who are well acquainted with the rigours of the Premier League. And they would be able to hold the midfield just fine against tricky opponents in the top-flight English football. What Pascal would bring is supreme technical abilities at the middle of the park.
His strength is his versatility in the midfield. He has played as a central midfielder, attacking midfielder, left wing, right wing as well as a forward. The defence-minded playmaker is brilliant in taking set-pieces and providing incisive key passes from the deep field. Having an impeccable range with long balls, the 25-year-old is a level up for Brighton by all means.
Pascal has scored four goals and six assists in 34 appearances this season. Pascal has created more chances than any other player in the Bundesliga this season, which is a phenomenal achievement. Having the likes of Glenn Murray, Anthony Knockaert, Sam Baldock and Tomer Hemed in the attacking line, who have a combined 60 goals to their tally this season, Pascal will only excel them. Brighton definitely looks like a tough opponent to play against next season.
An academy product of VfL Neckarau, Pascal moved to Hoffenheim back in 2007. He was quick to climb up the ranks breaking into the B-side in 2011. Second tier Karlsruher SC bought him on a free transfer then and Ingolstadt got him the next year.
In the past few seasons, side like Bournemouth and Burnley have shown the way for the lower sides how to survive in the Premier League and Brighton could well follow their lead. And Pascal could play a significant role in that.
