The Georginio Rutter paradox: Can Brighton rely on a striker who doesn’t score goals?

Georginio Rutter of Brighton & Hove Albion is demonstrating that a center-forward can be valuable without scoring goals, as he has not scored in the Premier League this season but ranks joint-fourth in assists with three from nine appearances. This places him among the top assist providers, with only former teammate Joao Pedro being another center-forward in the top 20, while others are primarily midfielders or wingers.

Rutter expressed a preference for playing as a No. 10, feeling more free and effective in that role, but he remains adaptable, willing to play as a striker or in other positions if required by the manager. Head coach Fabian Hurzeler noted that the summer departure of Joao Pedro to Chelsea increased pressure on Rutter to score, though Rutter emphasized that he focuses on helping the team through assists and does not try to emulate others, highlighting his unselfish playing style.

Throughout his career, Rutter has shown a tendency for assists, with 35 assists compared to 37 goals across 213 appearances for clubs like Rennes, Hoffenheim, and Brighton. His first season at Brighton was promising, featuring eight goals and four assists, but it was cut short by an ankle injury that impacted the team's European qualification hopes. After a slow start this season, Rutter is regaining form, as seen in recent matches where his physical strength and awareness created scoring opportunities, such as in the 3-0 win over Leeds United, where he contributed to two goals without being credited with an assist.