Hunt 'ideal' fit as Shez talks tactics

Photo: Darren Robinson

THE SHIRT FITS...New loan signing Rob Hunt has played eight times for Brighton this season.

ATHLETIC have signed Rob Hunt on loan from Brighton in a move which gives a clue to boss John Sheridan's tactical thinking.

Hunt (21) has made a total of eight appearances for the Seagulls this season and has come in on a loan that runs to the end of the campaign.

Also a target of Crawley among others, he is a right-sided defender.

And while Athletic also have Brian Wilson and Josh Law to cover for medium-term injury victim Cameron Dummigan, Sheridan sees Hunt as the perfect fit as a right-sided player in a 3-5-2 system.

"He plays as a right wing-back or right-back and can also play at left-back," Sheridan said. "There were a few clubs after him and we are very lucky to get him.

"He has really good potential and he has played for Brighton's first team this year.

"He is a young player who needs to come out of the under-21s and under-23s to play in a bit more of a physical league. It will do him the world of good.

"He has the ability to have a really good career.

"I know Brian can can play there and Josh as well who I have played in midfield. But if I'm thinking 3-5-2, he's ideal for that position.

"I know Ryan McLaughlin can play there, but I like him in central areas for his pace."

GAME-TIME

Brighton boss Chris Hughton, who has used Hunt in the EFL Cup and Checkatrade Trophy competitions this term, feels that getting game-time under his belt is ideal.

"He's had a spell with the first team and now he is back playing in the under-23s, but at such a young age it's tough to not be playing so regularly," Hughton said, prior to the move taking place.

"As part of his development, Rob needs that test of regular senior football."