Jack Hinshelwood’s progress has often been framed around his versatility, but Brighton may finally have found the role that makes best use of his qualities. The academy graduate finished last season as Fabian Hürzeler’s preferred No.10, adding goals without weakening the intensity of Albion’s press.
Hinshelwood scored three times across three matches during Brighton’s late-season improvement. One arrived after 35 seconds against Wolves, the fastest Premier League goal in the club’s history.
Squawka’s analysis noted that those three goals came from 1.2 expected goals. His finishing was clinical, although the timing of his runs into the penalty area was equally important.
Jack Hinshelwood has found a clearer role
Brighton have used Hinshelwood at full-back, in central midfield and across several supporting roles since his senior breakthrough. His ability to cover those positions made him useful, although regular changes prevented him from building rhythm in one area.
The No.10 role offered greater clarity. Brighton’s official season review recorded four goals and three assists after Hinshelwood moved higher up the pitch. He supported Danny Welbeck, connected midfield with attack and moved beyond the striker when defenders were occupied.
ReadBrighton examined the same development before the Wolves match, explaining how Hinshelwood’s movement between the lines had become central to Brighton’s attack. His goal after 35 seconds provided an immediate example of those well-timed runs.
His figures were not built on volume alone. Squawka ranked Hinshelwood sixth among Premier League players aged 21 or under for goals and third for shots on target. Those numbers also included appearances in deeper positions.
Why the No.10 role suits Brighton
The positional change worked because Hinshelwood also contributed without the ball. Hürzeler praised his willingness to follow runners and defend the edge of his own penalty area, responsibilities often overlooked when attacking midfielders are judged through goals and assists.
His defensive awareness comes from his earlier roles. Hinshelwood understands the movements of full-backs and central midfielders because he has played in those positions himself. When Brighton rotate in possession, he can recognise which space needs covering and where the next press should begin.
His running capacity also suits Hürzeler’s preference for an aggressive, high-energy side. Brighton can position another midfielder close to the striker without losing defensive discipline. Hinshelwood provides attacking movement while retaining some of the security of a natural central midfielder.
A ReadBrighton profile of the academy graduate highlighted the tactical intelligence and adaptability behind his rise. Hinshelwood joined Brighton’s academy at seven and has progressed through the club rather than arriving through its international recruitment network.
A platform for further recognition
Brighton must still manage his workload. European football will increase the demands on the squad, while his versatility means he will continue to provide cover in other areas.
However, using him primarily as a No.10 would give the 21-year-old the positional consistency that was missing during the earlier stages of his career. A full campaign closer to goal would also provide a clearer measure of his attacking potential.
Hinshelwood remains less prominent than several young Premier League players who arrived for significant transfer fees. His rise has been quieter, but his output and tactical value compare favourably with many of his peers.
Senior England recognition will depend on maintaining those standards over a longer period. Brighton already have a local academy graduate capable of becoming one of Hürzeler’s most important players.
