Jake Forster-Caskey: Brighton are adapting to manager Sami Hyypia

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Jake Forster-CaskeyImage source, Getty Images
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Forster-Caskey became Brighton's youngest non-wartime player when he made his debut at the age of 16 years and 13 days in May 2010

Jake Forster-Caskey says Brighton are improving under manager Sami Hyypia.

The Seagulls lost their first two Championship games under the Finn but have won their last two and progressed to the third round of the League Cup.

"There was a change of formation. It was hard for us because we were used to 4-3-3 and nothing else really," the 20-year-old midfielder told BBC Sussex.

"It has taken a little bit of time to adapt but in the last three games it is coming along nicely."

Brighton & Hove Albion under Sami Hyypia

Aug 9: 0-1 v Sheffield Wednesday (H)

Aug 12: 2-0 v Cheltenham (H)*

Aug 16: 0-1 v Birmingham (A)

Aug 19: 2-0 v Leeds (A)

Aug 23: 2-1 v Bolton (H)

Aug 26: 4-2 aet v Swindon (A)*

* denotes League Cup match

Forster-Caskey has made over 50 appearances for Brighton since making his debut aged 16 in May 2010 but says he is "learning every single day" under former Liverpool defender Hyypia.

"With this change in formation I think I have had to change my game a little bit," he added.

"I am probably slightly deeper and I have got to be more aware defensively when we are on the ball.

"It is great for me as I am still really young. That will really help me in my career."

Hyypia was appointed Brighton boss in June and brought in three new faces before the start of the season.

However he has signed six players since then and, with the possibility of fresh additions before the transfer window closes on Monday, Forster-Caskey is wary of extra competition at the Amex Stadium.

"With the new faces we are only going to improve with every single game," the England Under-21 international said.

"For the players that were here already, we have to up our game now.

"There are probably two players for every single position who can play in the first team.

"It will be tough but if we want to strive and look to get up to the top of the table then we need a good squad."

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