Brighton & Hove Albion head coach Fabian Hurzeler is backing Jack Hinshelwood to become a full England international.
Hinshelwood has earned three Under-21s caps this season and Hurzeler believes the versatile 19-year-old is destined to be a key player for both club and country.
“In understanding the game, in recognising the spaces, finding the right angle to the team-mate, having the first touch, having good passing, I think he is already one of the best,” said Hurzeler.
“Now it is about consistency, showing these actions for 90 minutes, not only in phases of the game. We try to help him, but what he is doing so far is impressive.
“He will be for sure a big part of the future of this club and hopefully also for the English national team, so I will call Thomas (Tuchel) and give him advice about this player.”
Hinshelwood has played in central midfield in recent matches. That was his position when he progressed through Brighton’s academy, after making most of 22 Premier League appearances at right-back.
He returned to the starting line-up for last Saturday’s 2-1 defeat at Liverpool following a calf injury. Sweden international Yasin Ayari, Hinshelwood’s midfield partner for that match, is due to resume training after suffering an ankle injury at Anfield.
Cameroon international midfielder Carlos Baleba, restricted to the bench at Liverpool by a knee issue, is available for Manchester City’s visit to the Amex Stadium on Saturday.
Interim England head coach Lee Carsley is due to name his final squad before Thomas Tuchel takes over later on Thursday.
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Jack Hinshelwood… midfielder? He gives Brighton edge, versatility and goals
(Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
