Brighton will face Arsenal in the Premier League on Saturday, yet they will do so without six key players.
This situation presents a significant challenge as they prepare to host the title-chasing Gunners at home.
Arsenal, fresh off a 3-1 victory over Brentford, climbed back to second place in the league table with 39 points.
Consequently, they have narrowed the gap to leaders Liverpool to just six points, showcasing their determination to chase the title.
Mikel Arteta’s side remains unbeaten in their last twelve matches, and they aim to continue this strong form against Brighton.
Meanwhile, Brighton grapples with injury woes as they prepare for this crucial matchup.
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler confirmed that striker Danny Welbeck will miss the match against his former club due to an ankle injury.
Although Welbeck has been pain-free and training, he remains unavailable for selection, complicating Brighton’s situation further.
“I can’t say a clear schedule for when he will be back,” Hurzeler explained.
“It could be next week, or it might take two, three, or even four more weeks.”
He remains hopeful for Welbeck’s return but emphasizes the need for caution.
Moreover, Brighton, winless in their last seven Premier League outings, will also be without Evan Ferguson due to a foot injury.
“If he was fit, he would be playing,” Hurzeler said, expressing his disappointment about Ferguson’s ongoing absence.
The game comes too early for Brighton’s recent £12 million signing, Diego Gomez.
Although he has begun training with the squad after his move from Inter Miami, Hurzeler noted that Gomez needs more time to regain full match fitness.
“He had two or three weeks’ holiday since the MLS season ended,” Hurzeler stated.
“He’s been training hard, and I’m excited to see him on the pitch soon. However, Saturday’s match is too early for him.”
Brighton may welcome back Adam Hinshelwood, Pervis Estupiñán, and Adam Webster for this match.
Unfortunately, James Milner, Mats Wieffer, and Ferdi Kadioglu are all expected to miss out, adding to Brighton’s injury challenges.
