Pascal Gross dismisses Brighton title talk despite victory over Brentford

Brighton midfielder Pascal Gross has played down his side's Premier League title chances despite Sunday's 2-0 victory over Brentford lifting the Seagulls into second place.

Diego Gómez opened the scoring before Gross converted a penalty against ten-man Brentford, moving Fabian Hürzeler's side to 22 points from ten matches.

Brighton head into the November international break five points behind leaders Arsenal.

Brighton's impressive start has prompted questions about whether they can sustain a challenge against Arsenal.

However, Gross, 35, believes it is too early to discuss the title race.

"No, we're not, but we've had a really good start to the season," the German midfielder said when asked whether Brighton could compete with Arsenal until May.

"We're not getting carried away or anything like that, every game we have to suffer and sometimes it's momentum."

Gross was nevertheless delighted to secure another victory before the international break.

"But we're really pleased to go into the international break like that," he added.

Gómez gave Brighton the lead in the 15th minute with a powerful strike from outside the penalty area.

Brentford's task became harder eight minutes later when Igor Thiago was sent off following a VAR review for pushing Chema Andrés in the face.

Gross doubled Brighton's advantage from the penalty spot in the 42nd minute after Keane Lewis-Potter held Luka Vušković.

The midfielder also equalled Mesut Özil's Premier League record of 87 goal involvements by a German player.

"I practice a lot and it's not always going in there," Gross said.

"But it was the right moment it went in so I'm really pleased."

Brighton have already beaten Arsenal and Manchester City this season, demonstrating their ability to compete with leading opposition.

However, Gross remains focused on maintaining consistency rather than discussing a potential title challenge.

Brighton return after the international break looking to maintain their strong start, while Gross and his teammates aim to keep the pressure on Arsenal.