Nigerian winger Zadok Yohanna made his Premier League debut for Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday, coming off the bench in the Seagulls’ emphatic 4-0 victory over Aston Villa at the Amex Stadium, Trybal News reports.
The 19-year-old was introduced in the 78th minute, replacing Mats Wieffer, just days after making his competitive debut for the club in the Conference League.
Brighton had already put the contest beyond doubt before Yohanna’s arrival, producing a devastating first-half display. Victor Lindelöf’s own goal and a strike from Maxim De Cuyper gave the hosts a two-goal cushion before Jack Hinshelwood added a quick-fire brace to complete a remarkable opening 45 minutes.
The afternoon became even more difficult for Aston Villa when João Gomes was shown a straight red card for a challenge on Georginio Rutter. Brighton comfortably controlled the second half, allowing manager Fabian Hürzeler to introduce Yohanna and fellow debutant Ibrahim Osman as the Seagulls cruised to a perfect start to the new Premier League campaign.
Yohanna’s appearance caps an important week for the teenager, who has moved quickly from making his competitive debut in European competition to experiencing the intensity of Premier League football. His introduction also underlines Brighton’s willingness to give young talent an opportunity at the highest level.
Brighton will return to action on Thursday when they host Tromsø in the second leg of their Conference League play-off, with the first leg ending in a goalless draw. Aston Villa will meanwhile look to bounce back when they host defending champions Arsenal on August 31.
