Ex-Albion striker Terry Connor has said that Aaron Connolly has the potential to be a top player.
Connor worked with Connolly during his time as assistant to Ireland manager Mick McCarthy and says Connolly has lots of potential after netting three goals in his debut Premier League campaign.
Speaking to the Football, the Albion & Me podcast, Connor said, “He could be a really top, top player. We had the under-21s in training with us last June before we played Denmark and Gibraltar in Euro qualifiers and we could see the potential of Aaron.
“So when the opportunity arose for us to bring in one or two to the full squad we took it because we knew that Aaron could handle the full international scene which he did when he made his debut against Switzerland. We knew he wouldn’t let us down.
“As for his potential, it’s whatever Aaron wants to be. If he wants to work hard, wants to improve and listen to his coaches and [head coach] Graham Potter and develop himself, whether that is playing through the middle or out wide, he can score goals, he can make goals and he could be a top player for both club and country.”
Connor praised the direction his former club has gone in under chairman Tony Bloom, maintaining Premier League status for the past three seasons.
“Brighton stayed up under Chris Hughton before going with Graham Potter so it’s obvious they’re trying to change style and philosophy which they’re going to stick to,” added Connor.
“I think they did really well this season to maintain their Premier League status and not have to wait until the very last day like some clubs did.
“They’re making those steps forward and there’s potential to grow even further. I have been down to the Amex on matchdays and the place seems to be well run, and the club has good values and it couldn’t be in better hands.
“I think there is the potential for Brighton to grow into a good, sustainable Premier League club that on a given day can win matches against the top teams in the league.”