AliousDefensive Dilemma Becomes a Strength: Hürzeler Opens Up on Brighton’s Evolving Backline
Fabian Hürzeler believes Brighton’s defensive situation has transformed from a concern into a genuine selection headache, as he offered a detailed update on his squad ahead of the demanding trip to Arsenal.
The Seagulls were forced to cope without club captain Lewis Dunk during last weekend’s goalless draw with Sunderland, the centre-back serving a suspension picked up following Brighton’s previous defeat to Liverpool. While Dunk’s return would normally guarantee an automatic recall, Hürzeler insists nothing will be taken for granted, stressing that competition for places is now one of Brighton’s biggest assets.
According to the Brighton boss, the depth available in central defence has given him “a decision to make”, but it is a problem he welcomes as the fixture schedule intensifies.
In positive news elsewhere, Hürzeler confirmed that several key players are edging closer to full availability. Danny Welbeck, the club’s leading scorer this season, is expected to resume training and could feature against his former side. Jan Paul van Hecke is also set to return to the training ground shortly, while suspended duo Lewis Dunk and Diego Gómez will both be back in contention. Midfielder Mats Wieffer, meanwhile, has come through recent concerns without issue.
Hürzeler underlined that player fitness is being monitored carefully, with a cautious, day-by-day approach guiding his decisions. However, he admitted confidence is growing that those returning will be ready when called upon.
The Brighton head coach also praised the performances of his defensive options in Dunk’s absence, highlighting Olivier Boscagli and Diego Coppola for proving their reliability both individually and collectively. For Hürzeler, having multiple centre-backs pushing each other is crucial not only for results, but for maintaining intensity and unity within the squad during a busy run of matches.
Beyond tactics and team selection, Hürzeler also revealed the human side of his management style. Emphasising the importance of mental recovery, he explained that he deliberately allows players time away whenever possible, encouraging them to reconnect with family and loved ones.
In his view, those moments off the pitch help players return refreshed, motivated and mentally stronger — an approach he sees as part of his responsibility as head coach.
With competition fierce, key players returning, and morale carefully managed, Brighton head into their clash with Arsenal buoyed by a sense that their defensive “problem” may actually be a newfound strength.
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