Brighton emerge as England's new surprise contenders: 'This is not taken for granted'

Brighton have won five of their last six Premier League matches and sit third in the table, though midfielder Pascal Gross insisted they are not title contenders.

Brighton & Hove Albion are emerging as genuine contenders in the Premier League title race after an impressive run of form. The Seagulls have won five of their last six league matches and currently sit third in the table, though still 27 points behind leaders Arsenal.

Despite the strong performances, midfielder Pascal Gross downplayed title ambitions. "No, we are not in the race for the title," he said. "But we have made a very good start to the season." Brighton have scored more goals than any other club this season (26) and conceded fewer than all but Arsenal (5 against 7).

Manager Fabian Hürzeler ranks third among German managers for points per game in Europe's top ten leagues this season.

Hürzeler acknowledged the challenge of maintaining consistency. "We have only played ten matches, so we focus on the next game after the international break," he said. "It will be a big challenge to stay constant. If we continue working this way, I am convinced we can maintain this form. Of course, we do not take this for granted."