Brighton star sends 'shocking' message after humiliation v Nottingham Forest

Jan Paul van Hecke is the first Brighton star to speak out publicly following their humiliating 7-0 defeat against Nottingham Forest at the City Ground.

Fabian Hurzeler's side were dismantled away from home, leaving the travelling supporters incensed and many calling for the manager's departure., as Football Insider reported.

An own-goal from Lewis Dunk, as well as headers from both Morgan Gibbs-White and Chris Wood saw the hosts leading by three at half-time.

Things then went from bad to worse after Wood scored two quick-fire goals to complete his hattrick, while Neco Williams and Jota Silva completed the rout.

The result saw Forest return to form after a 5-0 defeat to Bournemouth last time out, and Brighton have dropped to tenth as a result of Fulham's victory at Newcastle.

Jan Paul van Hecke speaks out as Brighton smashed 7-0 by Nottingham Forest

It had been radio silence from Brighton on the social media front following the defeat, but the 24-year-old Van Hecke has now opted to address the frustrations.

Taking to Instagram the morning after the loss, he wrote: "It's always easy to put a message on social media when you win, but today I feel required to give you a message.

"Yesterday was a shocking performance!

"There will always be bad performances in a season, but yesterday was unacceptable and we take full responsibility for that.

"Luckily in football there is always a next game to put things right.

"See you Saturday, thanks for the support."

Brighton are back in action at the AMEX when they face Chelsea in the FA Cup fourth round on 8 February, and will be determined to make amends in front of their home fans.

A quick turnaround will be required for all parties to move on from a humbling defeat.

Hurzeler, meanwhile, must inspire the team to win back supporters who have now begun asking questions about his position at the club.

In other news, Leicester plot move for Brighton defender after new twist.

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