Albion youngsters sign new deals

James Tilley celebrates scoring against Barnet in the Carabao Cup. Picture by Phil Westlake (PW Sporting Photography)

Defender George Cox, who has been with Brighton from under-11 level, has penned a new two-year deal. while forward James Tilley, who has been with the Seagulls from the under-12 age group, has agreed a three-year deal.

Tilley made his senior debut for the club in the 0-0 Championship draw with Middlesbrough in May 2015, and scored his first goal in the 1-0 Carabao Cup victory over Barnet in August.

Cox has appeared in all six of Albion’s Premier League 2 fixtures so far this season, as well as the Checkatrade Trophy matches against MK Dons and Oxford United.

Brighton under-23 coach Simon Rusk said: “I am delighted that both George and James have committed their immediate futures to the club.

“Both players have progressed well in recent years, and shown a tremendous desire to improve and make the next step up to first-team football.

“They are both local lads and it is very pleasing to see them rewarded for all their hard work.”