Zane Albarus excited by EFL challenge after joining Gillingham following Premier League 2 play-off success at Brighton & Hove Albion against Manchester United

Zane Albarus has won trophies with Brighton’s academy but Gillingham’s recent signing says the biggest thrill is still to come.

The 20-year-old central midfielder signed a two-year deal at Priestfield last week after ending his stint at Brighton by helping the under-21 side win the Premier League 2 play-off final.

His time with the Seagulls ended on a high, coming off the bench as Brighton beat Manchester United 1-0 at the AMEX Stadium to lift the trophy, but admits the prospect of competing for league points every week was a major attraction of the move.

"I am so excited to be on board for next season," said Albarus, following his Gills move.

"It's going to be my first opportunity in a senior team playing EFL football and being able to adapt from under-21s football into a senior team. I am excited for it.

“I think being able to play where points matter, playing where something matters behind it, I can't wait."

Albarus joined Brighton from MK Dons as an under-16 and made 10 appearances for the club's under-21 side last season, including playing the full 90 minutes in a 3-1 victory over Tottenham towards the end of the campaign.

His final weeks at Brighton provided a fitting farewell.

"Winning the Premier League 2 play-off final was a really special moment," he said.

"Being able to play with my team-mates for one last dance and to be able to win a trophy was brilliant.

"Two seasons ago, being able to win a trophy in the Hong Kong Soccer Sevens was fun as well. The best memories are when you're winning."

Gills supporters can expect a combative and committed performer in midfield, according to the new recruit.

"As a minimum, I am hard-working," said Albarus.

"I put 110 per cent into anything I do and I can be quite