Tomer Hemed gave Brighton & Hove Albion some new year cheer by leading them to the top of the Championship.

The Israeli striker won and converted a penalty just four minutes after joining the action, with his team trailing Fulham 1-0.

Team-mate Beram Kayal hopes to return to action following an ankle injury for this weekend’s FA Cup tie against MK Dons.

Brighton chairman Tony Bloom has reaffirmed his commitment to the club which recently announced a loss of £25.9m for the financial year to the end of the 2015-16 season.

“Our ambition remains for the club’s teams to play at the highest level possible,” said Bloom, who is also a lifelong supporter.

“As chairman I will do everything I possibly can to achieve that and remain fully committed.”