It is no co-incidence that in 2003/2004,the last time Brighton had a successful season, it was also the last time they had a prolific goal scorer, Leon Knight, who scored 27 goals as the Seagulls were promoted to the Championship.
In the past 3 seasons goals have proved hard to come by as the Albion have struggled at the wrong end of the table.
A prolific goal scorer can be the difference between a mediocre and a successful team and if the club are serious in their aspirations of promotion for the forthcoming campaign then this should be the main priority as they seek to strengthen the team.
The club currently have 6 forwards on their books, while all of them have shown signs of potential, none have so far proven to be the experienced goal getter that the Seagulls so badly need:
Bas Savage -Signed in February 2007 from Gillingham, scored some vital goals in the battle against relegation and provided some light-hearted moments with his ‘moon walking` celebrations and ‘TV Cult status`. He is not, however, the answer to out striking problems and it may be a good idea to sell him this summer to generate more funds for a bringing in a new forward.
Jake Robinson – Graduated from the youth team and still only 20. Had a brilliant first half of last season including 2 hat tricks but faded badly and struggled in the second. With another year left to run on his contract, 2007/2008 will be ‘make or break` for Jake.
Joe Gatting – Another youth team graduate and son of ex-Albion legend Steve Gatting. Scores for fun in the reserves but has found life a lot harder at first team level, managing just 5 goals so far. Surely he is another player who is in the ‘last chance saloon`.
Alex Revell – Signed from Braintree in June 2006. Had an excellent first season and always gave 110% and his 11 goals made him joint top scorer. Is worth keeping as he will get better and better with time.
Nathan Elder – signed from Billericay where he had an outstanding scoring record. Has not really been given many chances to date but got a goal on his full debut against Cheltenham last month and the club have high hopes for him.
Sam Gargan – An unknown quantity at senior level and due to be loaned out. He could be one for the future.
Chairman Dick Knight has promised a healthy and Competitive budged to bring in new players with, lets hope that Dean Wilkins uses the money wisely. It could prove to be the difference between failure and success next season.
By Stuart Davis
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