Gross played 66 times for Dortmund, scoring one goal and assisting 17 times, but on 2 January 2026, he came back to Brighton.

Aged 34 at the time, many wondered if it was more of a romantic career swansong.

“There may have been concerns that he may not have been able to recreate the impact of his first period at the Amex but that has been dispelled already,” added Cantor.

Only Chelsea’s Joao Pedro can better Gross’ goal contributions this season in the top flight. Pedro has five goals and three assists, to his former Brighton team mate’s three goals and four assists.

The midfielder – who retired from international football after the World Cup – has also played every single minute for Brighton in all competitions, nine games so far.

Former Liverpool and Fulham midfielder Murphy said: “He’s an intelligent footballer, with a great football IQ.

“You can see that he has grown into that version of himself over the years. That happens in football – it happened to me – when you know what you can’t do, as much as you know what you can do.

“So, you don’t see him trying to beat people on the outside with his pace. Instead he loves a little chop, or a Cruyff turn to give himself space and time, or to play a quick first-time pass around the corners. That’s why he always seems to be in space.

“His versatility tells you about his intelligence as well. He is able to play as a full-back, central midfield or, recently, as more of a 10. He is scoring and making goals.

“I am sure this won’t be his last season with Brighton but, even if it was, he is already going to be remembered as one of the Brighton greats by their supporters for what he has given so far to the club, especially with him coming back and doing what he is doing. It is nothing short of remarkable.”

This form led to Gross being the sixth oldest player to be named Premier League player of the month, for September.

Seagulls fan Mirzadeh added: “Even in his ‘unc’ era, he’s showing the Premier League’s elite how it’s done.

“If he was called Pascal Silva and played for a top-six club he might get the recognition and respect he truly deserves.”

Danny Murphy was speaking to BBC Sport’s Chris Bevan