The 2023/24 season was “positive and progressive” for Albion’s academy set-up its manager has said as a host of prospects made their debuts for the first team.
Brighton’s Ian Buckman praised the club’s academy after three players made their first team debuts from the set-up with more adding appearances.
The academy manager applauded the youngsters coming through the ranks from the younger age groups as the club continues to push players towards first-team football.
He said: “It has been an exciting year in the academy and a historic time to be part of our football club.
“We have enjoyed a positive and progressive season, with our main priority to provide players for the men’s first team.
“Our contribution continues to grow, particularly this season with the increased demands of European football.”
Three academy products – Mark O’Mahony, Benicio Baker-Boaitey and Joshua Duffus, made their debuts for Albion in the Premier League this season.
Baker-Boaitey, who recently received a call-up to the England Elite League squad, made his first appearance against Brentford in a six-minute cameo in December. He went on to make a total of four Premier League appearances and one in the FA cup off the bench.
Mark O’Mahony featured in a trio of games in March, including starting up front for Roberto De Zerbi away at Bournemouth.
The 19-year-old Irishman also began to make a greater impression while out on international duty, netting once and assisting twice in four games for the youth set-up.
Duffus represented Albion on the European stage, travelling with the team Amsterdam as well as coming off the bench for a brief appearance in Athens.
Cameron Peupion, Odel Offiah and Jack Hinchy also featured in the Albion first team at points across the season as well as heading out on loan.
In total, Albion’s under-21 players featured in Roberto De Zerbi’s matchday squad 89 times across the season.
It comes as some of Brighton best young stars continue to make their mark on the first team including Evan Ferguson, Solly March and Jack Hinshelwood.
Academy product Lewis Dunk remains a mainstay of the team as captain in a season where he added two more caps to his England record.
Buckman also praised the improvements made by the under-21 and under-18 squads.
A host of players across the youth set-up also received international call-ups this season.
The club also saw a record number of players progress from the under-16 squad on to the academy.
He said: “Day in and day out our academy staff give everything to help us maintain the high standards we have become known for.
“Long-term player development involves many people over many years. It is our responsibility to continue that legacy, support our players to maximise their potential and hope they help write the next exciting chapter in the club’s history.”
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