Football News

Pascal Groß: Brighton’s unsung hero may be set to finally make his international debut

By Mohamed Moallim

Published: 15:30, 4 September 2023 | Updated: 14:03, 8 September 2023

Brighton & Hove Albion utility man Pascal Groß could make his debut for Germany after being selected for their upcoming matches against Japan and France.

The 32-year-old had previously represented his nation at U18, U19 and U20 level.

Groß, who came through at 1899 Hoffenheim, turned out for Karlsruher SC and FC Ingolstadt 04 before joining Brighton in 2017, where he’s since established a cult-like status.

An ever-present (and set-piece taker) under Chris Hughton, Graham Potter and now Roberto De Zerbi, the native of Mannheim has created more chances than any other player during the 2023/24 season. His 16 goalscoring opportunities produced is also more than any player in Europe’s ‘big five’ leagues.

Hansi Flick, the under-pressure German national team head coach who’s picked up just 12 wins across 24 games in charge, subsequently rewarded Groß with a call-up.

It’s well-deserved as only Kevin De Bruyne has created more chances than Groß since he joined Brighton at the start of the 2017/18 season – an even more impressive feat when you consider the number of different positions he’s played.

The consistency, versatility and technical ability saw him become Brighton’s all-time top scorer in the Premier League with a consolation goal against West Ham.

“He defines the football club for me, ever since I first joined I’ve admired him as a player and how professional he is and how he works day in day out,” teammate Adam Lallana told BBC Radio Sussex’s Albion Unlimited podcast.

“It’s great to see him break that record, I’m sure he would have preferred the three points [against West Ham] but this is football.

“I think one of Pascal’s massive strengths is that he’s so versatile, he can play full back, lateral back, in the middle and a bit higher up, he’s just a manager’s dream.

“He understands the game, he understands space and time and he’s a huge asset to the football club.”

Groß only needs 11 more to break the Seagull’s all-time top-flight league record, currently held by Michael Robinson.

Brighton play Manchester United when the 2023/24 Premier League season resumes on Saturday 16 September.

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