Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler backs Promise David to make Premier League impact

Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler says new signing Promise David is a natural goalscorer and could feature in Sunday’s opening Premier League match against Aston Villa.

David has joined Brighton on a season-long loan from Belgian club Union St. Gilloise after an impressive campaign in Belgium. The forward, who is eligible to represent Nigeria and has played for Canada at the World Cup, is expected to add another attacking option to Hurzeler’s squad.

The 25-year-old scored 15 goals and supplied three assists in 37 appearances across all competitions last season, establishing himself as one of Union St. Gilloise’s most productive players.

Hurzeler offered a positive assessment of David’s character and ability before Brighton’s meeting with Aston Villa, while also outlining the qualities he believes the forward can bring to the Seagulls.

“Great and very positive character. I think that’s the first impression. Second of all, a goalscorer,” Hurzeler said, as quoted by the BBC.

“He has goals in his body and in his mind and that’s something that we definitely wanted to have.

“Today he will have his first session on the pitch with the boys and then hopefully he might be already involved against Villa.”

David’s first training session with his new team was scheduled to take place on the day of Hurzeler’s comments. The Brighton head coach therefore left open the possibility of the forward being included in the squad for the visit of Aston Villa, although no confirmation was given that he would play.

The loan move gives David the opportunity to test himself in the Premier League after his successful spell with Union St. Gilloise. Brighton will hope his record in front of goal can be transferred to English football as they begin the 2026/2027 campaign.

For David, the immediate objective will be to repay the confidence shown in him by Brighton and make a strong impression during his time at the club. He will also be looking to maintain the scoring form that produced 15 goals last season and establish himself as an important figure for the Seagulls.

His performances in Belgium persuaded Brighton to bring him in on loan, while his international experience with Canada includes participation at the World Cup. With Hurzeler already highlighting his attacking instincts, David will now aim to demonstrate those qualities on the Premier League stage.

Brighton’s opening fixture against Aston Villa on Sunday could provide the first opportunity for the former Olympic Eagles star to begin that process, depending on his involvement after his initial training session with the squad.