Jack Hinshelwood can hardly believe the season he’s had.
The 18-year-old signed a new four-year deal on Tuesday, a reward for a breakthrough campaign that has seen him make 17 first-team appearances this season.
“It’s been brilliant," he said. "Breaking into the team and cementing a place wasn’t something that I thought I would be doing at the start of the season, so to achieve that was amazing. I love playing for this football club.
“At the beginning of the season I wanted to be around the first team and be in the manager’s thoughts, giving him a selection headache. To break through and start games for a period of time was really enjoyable.
“My most enjoyable moment was scoring against Palace, I don’t think you can be happier as a Brighton player than scoring against them.
“I’ve always got in good areas but I’ve not scored too many headers in my career [Jack scored two headers; one against Palace and the other against Brentford].
“It’s a bit odd to think I’ve scored in the Premier League, I didn’t have time to think about it when we were in that period of playing every few days, but with the injury it’s been a good time to reflect on what I’ve achieved and now I want to try to do even more.”
Jack has been out with a foot injury since February and has set his sights on returning at the start of next season.
“I’ll be ready and raring to go. The focus is obviously on what we can do now and trying to get back into Europe. But personally, I can’t wait to get back on the pitch in pre-season and try and fight for my place in the starting XI.”
The England under-20 international has Albion in his blood, having been with our academy since the age of eight. His dad Adam also made over 100 appearances for Albion.
“I don’t think I needed much convincing [to sign a new contact]. The club is heading in only one direction and that’s up. It’s exciting to be a part of.”