De Zerbi shows belief in new boys
That Brighton’s recruitment is remarkable is no secret, but what is really extraordinary is the faith Roberto De Zerbi has in those who have been signed. Simon Adingra was making just his third league start for the club but excelled on the right, not only scoring the opener with a clever and composed finish but very nearly getting a second after skinning Andy Robertson. Two players also made their league debuts on Sunday: Igor Julio, a 25-year-old Brazilian centre-back signed from Fiorentina, and Carlos Baleba, a 19-year-old Cameroonian signed from Lille. They looked assured, testament both to the tactical structure and understanding De Zerbi has instilled, but also the confidence he gives players. Often the temptation is almost to smuggle young players into the starting lineup in lower-profile games: this was Liverpool. Everything De Zerbi does is bold and counterintuitive. Jonathan Wilson
