Tommy Watson sends message after Brighton debut, ex-Sunderland teammate reacts
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Credit: Imago
Edward Bazeley
Fri 29 August 2025 10:40, UK
Tommy Watson has provided an update after the former Sunderland star made his debut for his new club Brighton.
Watson scored Sunderland’s winning goal in their Championship playoff final victory over Sheffield United in May, ensuring that he left the North East on good terms.
Meanwhile, the winger scored on his Seagulls debut as Fabian Hurzeler’s men defeated Oxford United 6-0 in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday, 27 August.
Brighton were beaten 2-0 by Everton in their last Premier League game, and face title hopefuls Manchester City on Sunday, 31 August.
Credit: Imago
After thrashing Oxford 6-0 in the second round of the Carabao Cup on 27 August, Hurzeler’s side will face League One club Barnsley in September.
Meanwhile, Watson’s goal ensured that Brighton bounced back from their defeat to Everton, ensuring that they will head into their clash with Man City with renewed confidence.
Taking to Instagram on Thursday, 28 August, Watson wrote: “Proud to make my debut for this club!
Great feeling scoring my first goal in this shirt, which made it even more special.”
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The 19-year-old’s former Sunderland teammate, Chris Rigg, commented with a red heart emoji to share his appreciation.
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After helping Sunderland win promotion to the Premier League by notching three goals in 22 appearances across all competitions last term, Watson is now tasked with bridging the gap between the Championship and the top flight after joining the Seagulls.
Tommy Watson Brighton statsAll competitions 2025/26Appearances1Goals1Assists0Watson scored on debut for the Seagulls
Albeit a goal against second-tier opponents, Oxford, Watson has made the best possible start to his Brighton career, scoring one goal in as many appearances.
The South Coast club have made a poor start to their Premier League season, failing to win either of their first two games in the top flight.
Hurzeler’s men could be in for another tough day at the office when they host Man City on Sunday, but Watson can help them earn wins in upcoming clashes with Bournemouth and Barnsley in the top flight and the Carabao Cup, respectively.
Brighton finished eighth in the Premier League last term, while Hurzeler will hope that Watson’s presence can guide them to another top-half spot.