This Sunday, the south coast will buzz with excitement as Tottenham Hotspur heads to the Amex Stadium to face Brighton and Hove Albion in what promises to be an electrifying Premier League encounter. The Lilywhites come into this match on the back of an impressive five-game winning streak across all competitions, including a gritty victory over Ferencvaros in the Europa League during the week. In stark contrast, Brighton has struggled in recent outings, remaining winless in their last four league matches following a heavy 4-2 loss to Chelsea.
Spurs' manager, Ange Postecoglou, has expertly navigated pressures surrounding his role, successfully finding a potent blend within his squad, highlighted by a stunning 3-0 triumph against Manchester United last weekend at Old Trafford. Meanwhile, Brighton is still reeling from their recent results, craving a return to form reminiscent of their earlier victory against the same Red Devils.
With both teams eager to showcase their attacking prowess, spectators can expect a thrilling contest. Below is an anticipated lineup for both sides as we head into the much-awaited clash.
Brighton Team News: Joao Pedro Out Injured
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler faces significant injury challenges with up to four players sidelined. Joao Pedro’s ankle injury rules him out, while Jan Paul Van Hecke and Matt O'Riley are also long-term casualties. Additionally, there are concerns over winger Simon Adingra, with Hurzeler indicating caution regarding his participation.
However, there’s a silver lining as both Joel Veltman and James Milner are set to return to the squad, while Solly March and Brajan Gruda have trained this week and might find seats on the bench.
Brighton Suspensions and Injuries
Joao Pedro - Ankle (Expected return: October 2024)
Matt O'Riley - Ankle (Expected return: November 2024)
Jan Paul van Hecke - Other (Expected return: November 2024)
Simon Adingra - Other (Expected return: October 2024)
In his pre-match briefing, Hurzeler shed light on the situation, expressing optimism about returning players: "Brajan Gruda and Solly March trained excellently this week, so they could feature alongside James Milner, who is back. Joel Veltman is also in the mix. Though we're still missing long-term injuries, slight updates bring hope as Adingra remains uncertain, but van Hecke’s issue isn’t as severe as previously thought. Matt is making progress post-surgery, and that’s crucial for us. Overall, we have a mix of positive and cautionary updates."
Brighton Predicted XI
Verbruggen; Veltman, Dunk, Webster, Kadioglu; Baleba, Hinshelwood; Minteh, Rutter, Mitoma; Welbeck
Brighton Predicted Substitutes
Steele (GK), Igor (DEF), Lamptey (DEF), Estupinan (DEF), Wieffer (MID), Milner (MID), Enciso (MID), Ayari (MID), Ferguson (FWD).
After some disappointing displays, Hurzeler is faced with pivotal choices, likely opting to include Yankuba Minteh in the starting XI in lieu of Wieffer for a more aggressive approach, with Danny Welbeck expected to lead the attack despite Ferguson returning from injury.
Tottenham Team News: Heung-Min Son Doubtful
On the Spurs’ side, Heung-Min Son is anticipated to miss yet another match as he continues to recover from a hamstring injury, which sidelined him for both the victory over Manchester United and the following match against Ferencvaros. Defender Destiny Udogie missed the latter due to injury but is set to feature, while Wilson Odobert and Richarlison remain unavailable for selection.
Tottenham Injuries and Suspensions
Wilson Odobert - Hamstring (Expected return: November 2024)
Richarlison - Hamstring (Return date: Unknown)
Destiny Udogie - Hamstring (Expected return: October 2024)
Heung-Min Son - Hamstring (Expected return: October 2024)
Postecoglou provided updates in a recent press conference stating, "Destiny appears to be fine, with training slated for today and tomorrow proving vital. Unfortunately, Sonny's likely absence is still a concern despite his efforts to recover; the timing just isn’t aligning."
Tottenham Predicted XI
Vicario; Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Udogie; Bentancur; Johnson, Maddison, Kulusevski, Werner; Solanke
Tottenham Predicted Substitutes
Forster (GK), Gray (DEF), Dragusin (DEF), Spence (DEF), Davies (DEF), Sarr (MID), Bergvall (MID), Bissouma (MID), Moore (FWD).
Postecoglou’s midfield choices will be a focal point of interest, given the wealth of options available. With Son’s absence, it is unlikely the attacking setup will shift drastically from their latest outing, potentially seeing young star Mikey Moore remain on the bench despite his commendable performance earlier this week.
Fans can look ahead to an exhilarating matchup as both Brighton and Tottenham battle for vital points in the Premier League standings!