THOSE who recall the saviour that was Robbie Reinelt had further reason to celebrate Brighton & Hove Albion’s astonishing rise still further this week.

With Christmas on the horizon, a bitterly cold evening on the south coast proffered its own presents to joyous Seagulls supporters when 22-year-old Brazilian Joao Pedro grabbed an 88^th minute winner against iconic French powerhouse Olympique de Marseille. 

The goal – which saw Pedro joyously engulfed by ecstatic fans during wild celebrations – was enough to ensure Roberto De Zerbi’s praiseworthy side sealed top spot in Europa League Group B. In their first ever season competing in continental competition, Brighton qualified for the knock-out stages of this storied tournament.