Brighton show promise under Hurzeler in a season of transition

Fabian Hurzeler deserves huge credit for securing the club's second-highest Premier League finish in his first season in charge.

A points tally of 61 was only one shy of the campaign that delivered Europa League football under Roberto de Zerbi with help from Graham Potter. The lack of European football next season will be a frustration, but it is not the only target for this club.

When the 32-year-old arrived, he stated he wanted to "challenge the establishment", and in terms of league position, he came very close. At times, the Seagulls bloodied a few noses with some stand-out performances, securing wins over both this season and last year's champions along the way. Hurzeler continues to strive for consistency, and that has been difficult to achieve for a host of reasons.

Astute business and big-name sales allowed huge investment last summer, but Hurzeler has been hampered hugely by injuries to new signings Matt O'Riley and Ferdi Kadioglu as well as dependable Solly March and the experienced James Milner.

Adding that to several shorter absences from regular key first-team players, he did not name the same starting XI in any Premier League game this season.

The style has evolved, but the high-intensity football is clear to see. Goals have not been a problem with three individuals making double figures for the first time.

Defensively, the team has looked slightly suspect at times, but the stats are skewed by that 7-0 defeat at Nottingham Forest. Ironically, that loss sparked a brilliant run, and that has been the story this season.

The good results have come in streaks, finishing the campaign with 13 points from a positive 15. Away from the league, the defeat in the quarter finals of the FA Cup also hurt, especially when arch rivals Crystal Palace, went on to lift the trophy.

As with the past five or so seasons, the next challenge is to deal with inevitable interest in the star performers. Joao Pedro, Kaoru Mitoma and Bart Verbruggen will all have their suitors but, as ever, the club will only sell at the right price and when it already has a replacement in-house or on the way in.

A season of transition has shown huge promise, and an ambitious head coach will be hoping to build on a decent platform next year.