Alious
Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler has warned his squad to brace for a dangerous West Ham side this weekend — a team that has just done something the Seagulls themselves failed to achieve this season.
West Ham arrive with momentum after defiant Old Trafford display
A month on from Manchester United’s chaotic 4–2 win over Brighton, West Ham managed to avoid defeat at Old Trafford, battling back to secure a valuable point. The Hammers have rarely left that stadium with anything in the last 18 years, making the draw even more significant.
An inspired **Jarrod Bowen** played a crucial role in setting up **Soungoutou Magassa’s** first Premier League goal, rescuing a late 83rd-minute equaliser.
That result means Nuno Espirito Santo’s men have suffered just one defeat in their last five league matches, collecting **eight points from a possible 15**.
Despite their historically awful record against Brighton — just one win in 16 meetings since 2017 — West Ham travel to the Amex with renewed confidence.
And they’re bringing serious firepower with them: **Lucas Paquetá** returns from suspension, **Crysencio Summerville** could make his comeback, **Mateus Fernandes** is thriving, Bowen looks close to his best again, and veteran poacher **Callum Wilson** leads the line.
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### **Hurzeler names the four West Ham stars Brighton must fear**
Ahead of the clash, Hurzeler openly acknowledged the threat West Ham pose, singling out the players he believes can turn the game at any moment.
> “Every team has individual quality. Especially West Ham with their attack and midfield. They can be a big danger. I think **Bowen, Fernandes, Paquetá, Wilson…** They all have the quality to score a goal and create something out of nothing.”
Wilson, in particular, worries the Brighton boss — the striker has scored **five goals in 11 league matches** against the Seagulls.
Bowen’s pace and direct running caused Manchester United major problems last week, while Paquetá’s return gives West Ham a dose of creativity they lacked at Old Trafford.
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### **Respect for Nuno’s discipline and tactical structure**
Hurzeler praised Nuno Espirito Santo’s organisation, highlighting how West Ham limited United’s dangerous frontline while threatening on the break.
> “Especially Nuno’s teams — they’re very disciplined. They know how to defend, how to win games. Small margins will make the difference. Set pieces, throw-ins… everything matters.”
He emphasised the need for Brighton to push their physical limits and enter the match with the right mindset.
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### **Nuno applauds his young midfield trio’s rise**
West Ham’s recent improvement has been supported by the outstanding development of their young midfielders.
**Mateus Fernandes**, **Freddie Potts**, and **Soungoutou Magassa** earned glowing praise from Nuno after another standout performance.
> “Our young midfielders are giving us energy. They are very, very young, but they’re growing together. Midfield isn’t about individuals — it’s about balance. They’re learning each other, improving their understanding. That’s what makes a good midfield.”
With youthful energy in midfield, key attackers returning, and strong recent form, West Ham enter Sunday’s showdown with belief — and Brighton know exactly which four names they must fear.
Alious
