Brighton and Hove Albion are without a win in six games ahead of their Premier League clash against Champions League chasing Aston Villa.
Roberto De Zerbi’s men have been on a poor run and have slipped to 12th in the table after last Sunday’s 3-0 loss at Bournemouth. In contrast, fourth-placed Villa have been flying this season and thrashed Brighton 6-1 in the reverse fixture earlier this campaign at Villa Park. De Zerbi has questioned the motivation of his players in recent weeks and will look for a response from his injury-hit team this Sunday. “Injuries are a factor, but motivation as well,” he said. “Motivation in football is 80 per cent of our work.” Here’s the early team news for the Seagulls ahead of Sunday’s Amex Stadium showdown...
5. Pervis Estupinan - out
Unlikely to feature again this term following an ankle injury at Burnley. Photo: Lewis Storey
6. Kaoru Mitoma - out
The Japan international has been a huge miss for Brighton. He's out for the season with a lower back injury. Photo: Matt McNulty
7. Tariq Lamptey - out
Brighton's flying full-back continues to struggle with injuries. This time a muscular injury keeps him out. Photo: Stuart MacFarlane
8. James Milner - out
The former Liverpool man has not been seen since the 4-0 loss at Luton with a muscular injury. Photo: GLYN KIRK