Fabian Hurzeler challenges Rutter and Kostoulas after Danny Welbeck departure

Fabian Hurzeler has challenged Georginio Rutter and Charalampos Kostoulas to prove they can lead Brighton & Hove Albion's attack following Danny Welbeck's summer move to Chelsea.

The Albion head coach insists the club's immediate focus is on developing the forwards already at his disposal, although he has not ruled out signing another striker before the transfer window closes.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Hurzeler made it clear both forwards now have the chance to establish themselves as key players.

"We have two really good strikers with Georginio Rutter and with Kostoulas, who didn't play that many minutes last season but who has big potential."

The German coach believes Welbeck's departure creates an opportunity that both players must embrace.

"It's now your time, you have to deliver now."

"We need to focus on our players, to develop them in the right way, to challenge them and to put demands on them."

Both attackers have impressed during pre-season, scoring against Wycombe before featuring for around an hour each in Brighton's recent friendly with Strasbourg.

Despite his confidence in the current squad, Hurzeler acknowledged Brighton will continue monitoring the market.

"If there is an opportunity where we see a striker that might help us, then we might do something."

However, the club remain committed to giving younger players the chance to step up, particularly after investing heavily in Rutter and Kostoulas.

Sources close to the squad have also been encouraged by Kostoulas' performances during pre-season, with the 19-year-old expected to receive further opportunities before the Premier League campaign begins.

Brighton will continue assessing their attacking options when they face Roma on Saturday. Rutter and Kostoulas are both expected to feature again as Hurzeler evaluates whether his current forwards are ready to replace Welbeck's experience heading into the new Premier League season.