Brighton U21 coach Shannon Ruth was delighted seeing Joshua Duffus in the senior squad for Thursday's Europa League win against Ajax.

The striker followed in the footsteps of Evan Ferguson and Jack Hinshelwood in reaching the first team from the academy.

“I think Josh thought he was in trouble when we sat him down and said he was in the first team squad!" said Ruth.

“He couldn't take the smile off his face and it's certainly a night he'll never forget. Telling young players they're making the step up like that is definitely the best part of my job.

“When you see Jack make his debut at Villa, or Evan score a hat-trick against Newcastle, or Josh being involved against Ajax, it's extremely rewarding and it's why we all do what we do.

"We are really proud to say our pathway provides opportunities like the one Josh had this week, and as an academy, we are extremely grateful for the belief Roberto puts in our young players.

“He has shown them that if they're ready, they will get a chance. That's such a unique and rare thing."