Brighton loans chief explains why Albion's 'dynamic' young striker is thriving at AFC Wimbledon

Longman, 19, joined the Dons on a season long loan and has two goals in his first five league games for Glyn Hodges' team.

Longman, who made his Brighton debut as part of the youthful Carabao Cup outfit against Aston Villa last season, netted his first senior goal for his new club in their 4-4 draw against Plymouth last month.

He was then on target once again as he opened the scoring during their 2-1 home loss to Accrington on October 3.

“I’m buzzing about it to be fair," said Longman after the Plymouth match. "I got the goal and a nice assist as well. That’s what I’m here to do – get goals and assists, so it’s all good."

His Wimbledon strike partner Joe Piggott, who scored the winner against Swindon Town last Saturday, said, “I love playing with Longy, he’s a great lad. He’s very dynamic and direct and is brilliant to work alongside.”

Albion loans manager David Weir has also been impressed by Longman’s start to the season and believes the experiences he will gain at Wimbledon should serve him well for his long term career.

Weir said, “The coaching staff at Wimbledon seem really happy with him. We know there will be ups and downs throughout the season, but so far it has been really positive.

“He has hit the ground running, Wimbledon have been keen on taking Ryan on loan for a while now – they were interested in him last season before he picked up an injury.

“That’s good for us because they know what his strengths are and how he can develop. They’ve kept up their side of the bargain and given him an opportunity to play.

“Ryan is level-headed. He knows that there is a long season ahead and that the number of games will start to ramp up. That will be the real test as League One is tough.

“He’s going to have good days but everything that has come his way so far he has dealt with. He understands what he needs to improve, but he’s playing with experienced lads and it’s a good way to get his first taste of professional football.”

Weir, who gained 69 caps for Scotland and enjoyed a successful career with Everton and Rangers, also warned that it's important to follow the professionals with the good habits during his loan spell.

“It’s not just the Saturday afternoon," said Weir. "It’s the Monday to Friday, learning the good habits that these guys have picked up through their career.

“But there’s the flipside where there will be some players who won’t necessarily have those good habits and he’s got to be careful of that and make good choices which is part of his development. He has certainly made a good impression on their coaching staff.”