Rushworth deserves

Brighton and Hove Albion FC Football Sport

Carl Rushworth has been told he deserves “a fair shot at the Premier League” amid reports of a bid from Coventry City.

The former England under-21 international is wanted by Sky Blues boss Frank Lampard having helped them to the Championship title while on loan.

It has been no secret throughout the season that Lampard would like to keep Rushworth, whose form has been outstanding.

Coventry are said to have offered what would be a club record £20 million for the player.

His agent Steve Hunt has revealed Albion turned down an offer from a Premier League club for a permanent deal for Rushworth before he went on loan at Hull almost two years ago.

Rushworth’s stint in East Yorkshire was affected by injury and he was recalled midway through the season to understudy Bart Verbruggen after Jason Steele underwent surgery.

Hunt said: “He has had the season of his life playing and so have Coventry.

“He was won player four years out of five as a loan player and as a goalkeeper.

“I don’t think he could do much more now to have a fair shot at the Premier League.

“I’m not one of those guys who likes my goalkeepers to sit on the bench.

“I think if he is going to go somewhere in the Premier League he has to play and that is vitally important for us.”

Speaking to the 1904 Club podcast, which focusses on Hull City, Hunt said: “I think the market is only just beginning to move.

“I expect the market now to get moving and that will determine what happens with Carl.”

Hunt recognised Verbruggen is likely to attract offers.

Albion reject second van Hecke bid amid interest from 'multiple sources' Brighton-based coach expected to take over fallen ex-Prem champions Nigerian teen ace explains emotional scenes as he agrees long-term Albion deal

James Beadle spent last season on loan at Birmingham and there is also the possibility head coach Fabian Hurzeler and staff might like goalkeepers at other clubs.

All the current goalkeepers, including England training player Jason Steele, were already with Albion when Hurzeler arrived in 2024.

Hunt added: “With Brighton, I think figures and data come a lot into it.”