Brighton have been urged to give Charalampos Kostoulas a larger role after a promising first season in England. Charalampos Kostoulas at Brighton made 21 Premier League appearances last term, but only two came as a starter. He scored twice and regularly featured from the bench.
Former Albion player Warren Aspinall believes the 19-year-old now needs a sustained opportunity. Speaking on BBC Radio Sussex’s Albion Unlimited podcast, Aspinall said Brighton should “take the shackles off him and let him go”.
Charalampos Kostoulas at Brighton backed for bigger role
Aspinall feels Kostoulas can provide something different to Danny Welbeck. The Greece international presses defenders, attacks space behind defences and offers Brighton a more direct option through the middle.
The former Brighton player also suggested that 15 goals in all competitions would represent a successful campaign. Kostoulas arrived from Olympiacos for £29.78million last summer and remains one of the club’s most significant investments in a young player.
ReadBrighton recently reported that Kostoulas scored twice in a 4-1 pre-season win over Wycombe Wanderers. He started alongside Welbeck and converted two first-half chances, giving Fabian Hürzeler an early indication of his progress.
Kostoulas often produced encouraging moments during short appearances last season. His overhead kick against Bournemouth was the clearest example, while his movement and strength caused problems in several substitute outings.
BBC Radio Sussex reporter Johnny Cantor also backed Kostoulas to develop alongside Welbeck. He highlighted the forward’s strength in possession, despite his age, and believes the pair offer different qualities.
Brighton have other options across the front line, but Welbeck remains their most established centre-forward. Stefanos Tzimas is still returning from injury, which could create further opportunities during pre-season.
Charalampos Kostoulas at Brighton now appears better placed to compete for regular minutes. A run of starts would give the club a clearer view of whether he is ready to become a consistent Premier League goalscorer.
