'I don't have to shine individually'

Fabian Hurzeler sits in the dugoutImage source, Getty Images
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Fabian Hurzeler became the Premier League's youngest permanent manager when, aged 31, he took charge of Brighton earlier this summer.

Hurzeler joined the Seagulls having won promotion to the Bundesliga with St Pauli last season.

At Wednesday's Brighton fans' forum broadcast live on BBC Radio Sussex, Hurzeler was asked if he wanted to make a statement like other German coaches have done previously in England, and also whether he viewed the Seagulls as a "stepping stone" in his career or if he was ready to "make a change" at Brighton.

"I'm here for the success of the club," said Hurzeler. "I don't have to shine individually. I want to improve players and the squad. I will give everything I have to this club and for the success of this club. We can achieve things together.

"I don't see myself as most important. It is more about giving my knowledge and my passion to the players and the club and to you [supporters]."

Hurzeler was asked for a message to supporters before the club's opening Premier League game at Everton on Saturday.

"Like I said at the beginning, this feels more like a community and family than a football club," he said. "This family and this togetherness will be key to our success.

"Thank you for giving me this feeling. We are all sitting together in the same boat. I try to get the view of most of you because you represent and support the club.

"If we are on the same page and follow one big goal with everything we have, I think we can achieve big things."

Listen to the full fans' forum on BBC Sounds