AliousBrighton will be without two crucial players for their upcoming Premier League match against Bournemouth, who are pushing for a Champions League spot.
Defenders Joel Veltman and Lewis Dunk have been ruled out, while veteran striker Danny Welbeck remains a major doubt after missing the previous game due to an injury sustained in training.
Manager Fabian Hurzeler admitted concerns over both Veltman and Welbeck, explaining that their availability depends on how they perform in training.
He emphasized that a final decision would only be made after assessing them during the session.
However, he also stressed the importance of not taking unnecessary risks, especially with another key fixture against Newcastle looming on the horizon.
Captain Lewis Dunk will definitely miss the game due to a rib injury he sustained in the FA Cup fourth-round victory over Chelsea.
Hurzeler confirmed that there is no chance of him being available for selection.
In Dunk’s absence, Adam Webster has stepped up, forming a solid defensive partnership with Jan Paul van Hecke.
Hurzeler praised Webster’s resilience and leadership, noting that despite setbacks and injuries, he has maintained a strong mentality and has adapted well to the challenges of Premier League football.
Meanwhile, Pervis Estupiñán is available again after returning from a muscle injury in the second half of Brighton’s recent win at Southampton.
His return could see Tariq Lamptey move back to his natural right-back position, with Jack Hinshelwood potentially shifting into midfield alongside Carlos Baleba, replacing Yasin Ayari.
In attack, João Pedro is expected to lead the line again, especially if Welbeck is not deemed fit in time for the match.
Brighton will have to carefully manage their squad as they juggle their injury concerns with the demands of a busy fixture schedule.
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