New Brighton boss 'wants to challenge establishment'

Fabian Hurzeler, Brighton's new manager, has said he wants to "achieve big things and challenge the establishment".

The 31-year-old, who is the youngest permanent manager in Premier League history, has taken over at the Amex Stadium after guiding St Pauli to promotion to the Bundesliga last season.

The Texas-born German coach spoke about the magnitude of his move to "the best league in the world" and says he is willing to adapt his philosophy during his tenure.

Brighton's opening league fixture is away to Everton on August 17.

"I'm aware this is a huge job. It's a big challenge and I think I need a lot of courage and ability so I need to stay humble," Hurzeler said at his first press conference as Brighton manager.

"My targets, I want to discuss them with my players, they need to be convinced of that, they need to feel what we can achieve, that's the main thing for me. I want to achieve big things and I want to challenge the establishment.

"The Premier League is the best league in the world with a lot of good coaches. You need your own philosophy and identity but it's important to take other elements and adapt."

Hurzeler has replaced Roberto De Zerbi at Brighton, with the Italian stepping down at the end of last term following two successful seasons in the hotseat before taking charge at French side Marseille.

Hurzeler added: "Roberto De Zerbi had a huge impact on the football world with a different style of football. Of course I will take some elements (from him) but I have my own philosophy and you can't copy anyone.

"I like the football he played, it had a lot of courage with some interesting elements which I will also try and adapt to my philosophy."

Brighton chairman Tony Bloom said the move to bring Hurzeler to the south-coast club was not a gamble despite his limited experience as a head coach.