Aaron Connolly has agreed a new contract with the club until June 2024 after an impressive debut Premier League campaign.
The 20-year-old made 27 made appearances in all competitions last season, scoring three times in the Premier League, and he also made his full debut for the Republic of Ireland.
He said, “It’s fantastic the club have given me this kind of security because it means I can push on now for the next four years. It will help me relax and enjoy my football even more.
“This season has been unbelievable at times and obviously the Tottenham game when I scored twice was a big moment for me. But then I had the dip where I didn’t get the goals which was tough to take.
“But to get one against Burnley on the final day of the season and to go into the break knowing I have scored another goal since Spurs was a great feeling. I am just looking forward to improving even more next season.”
Graham Potter has been keen to develop young players at the club since he has arrived, and that was a massive factor in Connolly committing his future.
“Without the manager I don’t think I would have played any Premier League games for Brighton by now,” added Connolly.
“I owe a lot to him and I want to repay that faith that he has shown in me next season. The trust he has put in me is a huge bonus even without the goals, so if I can score regularly next season it will make me even happier.”
Technical director Dan Ashworth said: “It’s been a breakthrough season for Aaron but he is always looking to improve every aspect of his game. His new contract will give him stability and the opportunity to really develop with us. We’re looking forward to working with him and helping to make him an even better player.”
See also: New deal for Steven Alzate
The 20-year-old made 27 made appearances in all competitions last season, scoring three times in the Premier League, and he also made his full debut for the Republic of Ireland.
He said, “It’s fantastic the club have given me this kind of security because it means I can push on now for the next four years. It will help me relax and enjoy my football even more.
“This season has been unbelievable at times and obviously the Tottenham game when I scored twice was a big moment for me. But then I had the dip where I didn’t get the goals which was tough to take.
“But to get one against Burnley on the final day of the season and to go into the break knowing I have scored another goal since Spurs was a great feeling. I am just looking forward to improving even more next season.”
Graham Potter has been keen to develop young players at the club since he has arrived, and that was a massive factor in Connolly committing his future.
“Without the manager I don’t think I would have played any Premier League games for Brighton by now,” added Connolly.
“I owe a lot to him and I want to repay that faith that he has shown in me next season. The trust he has put in me is a huge bonus even without the goals, so if I can score regularly next season it will make me even happier.”
Technical director Dan Ashworth said: “It’s been a breakthrough season for Aaron but he is always looking to improve every aspect of his game. His new contract will give him stability and the opportunity to really develop with us. We’re looking forward to working with him and helping to make him an even better player.”
See also: New deal for Steven Alzate
