Brighton vs Ajax player ratings: Four 8s as Albion cruise past sleeping giants for first Europa League win

The Seagulls had taken just one point from their opening two Europa League games in Group B ahead of the double-header with the Dutch giants – meaning a win was crucial to keep the knock-out rounds a realistic aim.

Any nerves were not on show as Roberto De Zerbi’s side bossed possession against an Ajax side, who haven’t won a game since their Europa League qualifier at Ludogorets and sit second bottom in the Eredivisie – a run of form which saw manager Maurice Steijn lose his job as head coach.

Albion had to be patient for the opening goal, with James Milner and Simon Adingra missing decent opportunities before the deadlock was finally broken on the stroke of half-time.