Albion's rookie defender Adam Hinshelwood has vowed not to let a stunning debut go to his head.

The 18-year-old believes there is plenty of room for improvement after helping his uncle and manager Martin Hinshelwood off to a fairytale start.

Steve Melton, Paul Brooker and Bobby Zamora gave the Seagulls a sparkling 3-1 win at Burnley on their return to Division One.

But it was Hinshelwood, still eligible for the youth team, who stole the show at centre half in place of unwell captain Danny Cullip.

He did not even know he was playing until a few hours before kick-off after Cullip was left at home suffering from a stomach bug.

"Going to Turf Moor and getting three points, it doesn't get much better than that," Adam declared.

"I think I gave a good account of myself on my debut, but there are still areas I can improve on. I struggled with some headers.

"I didn't seriously imagine we could get off to such a good start. I was playing at St Leonards last Tuesday and it felt like one man and his dog were watching there compared to Saturday.

"I can't really believe it to be honest, but I'll just take it all in my stride and build from this.

"The players talked me through the whole game and settled me down, so it was a good experience.

"I get plenty of stick about my uncle being the manager, but that is part and parcel of it.

"I honestly believe I am good enough to be here and the manager believes I am, so I will just listen to him.

"It was a fantastic day for me and hopefully the start of something special."

Manager Martin, promoted from director of youth four weeks ago, said: "I've always stated it wouldn't bother me playing kids. They have got to be able to cope with it and I thought Adam coped magnificently.

"We put two young boys on at the death (Shaun Wilkinson and Daniel Marney) and that gives them experience as well. If I've got kids that can cope with it then I am going to chuck them in."

Melton hurt a hamstring when he slotted Albion into a first-half lead. He seems certain to miss tomorrow night's clash against Coventry at Withdean.

Full match report of Saturday's game at thisisthealbion.co.uk