Premier League star announces international retirement moments after stunning display vs Arsenal

Brighton star Pascal Gross confirmed his Germany retirement just moments after leading the Seagulls to a memorable win against Arsenal. Fabian Hurzeler’s men secured a stunning 3-0 win with Gross, Charalampos Kostoulas and Chema Andres all on the scoresheet.

Having also notched an assist for the defender’s goal, Gross extended his brilliant early season form. The 35-year-old now has four goals and four assists in just eight appearances in all competitions.

Despite that form, Gross will not be earning a spot in Jurgen Klopp’s Germany squad, having confirmed that he has hung up his boots for the national side. "Officially – since I don't have social media – I haven't announced my retirement, but I have already retired," the 19-cap midfielder said to Sky Sports.

"For me, it was over after the World Cup. I think it's time to wish the new generation nothing but the best and to keep my fingers crossed for them."

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Gross only returned to Brighton from Borussia Dortmund in the summer and said that he is loving life back at his former home.

He added: "I thought we showed great intensity, waited for mistakes and punished Arsenal. It was a strong performance, a very complete performance.

"We won the ball high up and attacked really fast. After the last two wins we are full of confidence and wanted to finish really strong before the international break.

"I feel really good. I can't complain. I just try to help the team when I can. I really enjoy life in Brighton – I'm loving it.

"I know after the international break we play every three days and a lot of the lads are not used to that. It will be tough. I hope we can compete. We have a big squad this season."

Boss Hurzeler was also full of praise for Gross and his performance. Speaking about his star midfielder, he said: "We spoke about Pascal Gross and I said, I think in my last press conference, that you can compare him a little bit with a good wine. The older he gets, the better he is.

"He’s not only a player who makes his team-mates better, he’s not only a player who really understands the game so well. I think the things you can’t measure are the things we see in the daily business and on the training ground.”