Brighton's Gross proving his worth

After a slow start to the season, Brighton's first signing of the off-season is starting to turn heads.

Pascal Groß Source: AAP

Bought from relegated Bundesliga side Ingolstadt, central midfielder Gross has been involved in all four of Brighton's goals this season, the attacking midfielder's opponents are starting to take notice.

Brighton manager Chris Houghton highlighted the importance of bringing the midfielder in early during the transfer window.

"We've benefited from having him here early," manager Chris Hughton told Sky Sports after Brighton's win over West Bromwich Albion on September 10.

"It's allowed us to work with him and for him to settle in. We're fortunate that he was one of our first summer buys."

While many foreign imports often need time to familiarise themselves with the rigours of the English game, a full pre-season appears to have given Gross a head start, despite some early struggles.

A largely ineffective performance in the opening day defeat to Manchester City was followed by another disappointing showing against Leicester City, but the German refused to give in, and was the hero two weeks ago when he scored a brace and provided an assist in Brighton's first top-flight win since 1983 during their 3-1 win over West Brom.

Another fine performance followed against Bournemouth where he provided another assist, something the 26 year-old undoubtedly feels at home doing, having created more chances in the Bundesliga last season than any other player - an impressive feat given Ingolstadt finished second last.

"You could see that against Bournemouth, when he set up the goal. He showed his composure on the ball and his strength," defender Uwe Huenemeier told Brighton newspaper The Argus.

"That's what he is capable of, not just running."

Gross's creative ingenuity will be required once more as Brighton seek to unlock a surprisingly resolute Newcastle United side on Monday morning, who have conceded just once in their last three games.