'Fantastic potential'- Roberto De Zerbi excited by new Brighton forward duo

The Albion ran out comfortable winners at the Amex Stadium thanks to an Evan Ferguson hat-trick, giving the Sussex side their third win in four games. The Seagulls are now sixth in the Premier League table heading into the international break.

The victory saw De Zerbi start Ferguson and £30m summer signing Joao Pedro up top together for the first time since the Brazilian arrived at the club.

Ferguson rightfully grabbed the headlines post-match for a blistering hat-trick, but De Zerbi was also keen to point out how well the 18-year-old's strike partner played against the Magpies.

HAVE YOU READ THIS?

Two Brighton stars still set leave this week despite transfer window closing

Forgotten Brighton striker set to complete permanent move to European club

The Italian said: “[Joao] Pedro played the same game in terms of quality as Evan [Ferguson] but he didn't score. The potential of Pedro is fantastic. He has to improve in the last 20 metres, because he can shoot more times on goal. I am happy with his performance.”

De Zerbi was also full of praise for teenage sensation Ferguson, who scored his first club career hat-trick and became only the fourth player in Premier League history to achieve this feat at 18-years-old.

The Brighton boss said: “I’m delighted for Evan Ferguson, but not for the goals. I’m really pleased with the performance. In the first half he played very well, he found the right position to receive the ball from JP Van Hecke, [Lewis] Dunk and [Billy] Gilmour.

"He is improving, which is great for us and his career. He is working to improve his qualities, not only scoring goals.”