In Focus: Mitoma leading by example for high-flying Seagulls

Kaoru Mitoma continues to shine for in-form Brighton as they maintain their stunning form under Roberto De Zerbi.

The Japan international has scored three Premier League goals in six appearances this season, including a brace as a second-half substitute in last weekend's 3-1 win over Bournemouth.

And with a further three assists to his name, the Seagulls star remains one of the division's most exciting attacking players — building on an excellent debut campaign in England's top flight.

Ahead of today's clash with Aston Villa, we take a closer look at his outstanding performances for the South Coast side.

Dynamic dribbler

To add to his impressive catalogue of talents, Mitoma ranks among the top six players in the Premier League for attempted take-ons (25) this season.

Additionally, only five top-flight stars — Pedro Neto, Ben Chilwell, Moussa Diaby, Mohamed Salah and Bruno Fernandes — have a higher expected assists total than the 26-year-old (2.02).

He also ranks 11th — level with Liverpool's Salah — for chances created (14) and has proved his quality as both a creator and finisher.

Super-sub

Mitoma's importance to Brighton was highlighted on Sunday after he was introduced as a second-half substitute against Bournemouth.

Just three days after their first-ever European match — a 3-2 defeat to AEK Athens at the Amex Stadium — De Zerbi opted to make changes as his side returned to league action.

With the scores level at half-time, Mitoma struck almost immediately after his introduction and secured all three points in the 77th minute.

He bagged twice from just two shots, placing both into the bottom right corner and preventing an upset on the South Coast.

High praises

There was plenty of well-deserved praise for Mitoma after the Bournemouth victory, including from goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen.

He said: "He [Mitoma] is a brilliant player and I'm really lucky to have him in my team instead of on the opposition team."

De Zerbi, meanwhile, applauded the "character" behind Brighton's second-half turnaround.

He said: "I am really pleased because we won with character and patience and not the style and quality of play. Character is maybe the most important part of football."

Progress

Few people will have been surprised by Mitoma's continued excellence in the opening weeks of the 2023-24 campaign.

He was among the standout players in the Premier League last season, reaching new heights after Brighton appointed De Zerbi.

Only four stars — Gabriel Martinelli, Bukayo Saka, Jordan Ayew and Eberechi Eze — completed more take-ons than the former Kawasaki Frontale winger (59) last term.

With seven league goals and five assists, Mitoma's attacking contributions were impressive — but he is on course to hit new heights this campaign.

Growing pains

Mitoma could not be in a better place to continue his rapid progression.

Asked about playing under De Zerbi, he said: "He [De Zerbi] teaches me about the strategy and technique to the most minute of details.

"He is a manager that lets me play to my strengths. But he will always demand more from you, so I always feel the desire to grow."

As Brighton look to keep their place in the top four of the early Premier League standings, Mitoma will again play a key role in this afternoon's tough test at Villa Park.