News

Cox looking forward to a new adventure

George Cox is looking forward to a new adventure out in the Netherlands after his loan move to Fortuna Sittard was confirmed yesterday, and expressed his gratitude to Brighton & Hove Albion for the club’s role in his development.

By James Hilsum • 03 September 2019

By Paul Hazlewood
George Cox

The 21-year-old full-back will ply his trade in the Dutch Eredivisie in 2019/20 on a loan deal with a view to becoming a permanent transfer, and explained how difficult it was to leave his hometown club.

He said, “I got a couple of calls to say there was some interest from Sittard in the summer, and as the interest got stronger, I felt it was the best option for my career at this point.

“It was a very difficult decision to make, because I’m from Brighton and I’ve got family and friends there. I have also built up some good relationships with the people at the club in the last ten years.

“But now I’ve got to look at myself and the bigger picture for my career.”

The young defender spent the second half of last season playing League Two football at Northampton Town, and is relishing the prospect of making a step up to one of the top European leagues after a couple of injury setbacks in the last 12 months.

“Everyone knows the fixtures that spring to mind in the Dutch league, but it’s also about testing myself against bigger and better players.

“I know that it will be a big jump, but I tend to get the best out of myself when I am under pressure. That personality and drive keeps me going.

“I thought that this kind of football would suit me, all the setbacks I have had in the last year have made me stronger, and encouraged me to test myself a bit more in a different country.”

By Paul Hazlewood
Shannon Ruth and Simon Rusk


Cox spoke in detail about the key individuals that had helped him get to this point in his career, singling out a few key individuals for their support.

“I’ve got to thank everyone, but in particular, Simon [Rusk], Shannon [Ruth] and John [Morling]. Simon coached me brilliantly, and managed me in a great way to bring out my best qualities as a player.

“Shannon became a friend-type figure that I could go to if I had problems. He was always there if I needed his advice, and would be honest about where I needed to improve, and John was exactly the same.

“Sue [Parris] was also very supportive on the education side of things, especially when I was on day release. I would like to thank everyone involved in the club.”