Brighton's double blow ahead of Norwich could see Fabian Hurzeler's decision pay-off

Fabian Hurzeler’s decision to include young defender Ruairi McConville in recent matchday squads could prove extremely useful at Norwich City this Saturday.

McConville, 19, is yet to make his debut for Brighton but the two-cap Northern Ireland international has ben included in Premier League matchday squads five times this season.

The experience could be invaluable for McConville as Albion prepare for their FA Cup third round tie against Norwich at Carrow Road.

Hurzeler has numerous defensive issues with skipper Lewis Dunk out with another calf issue, while Igor Julio looks set for a “few months” on the sidelines following his hamstring injury in the 1-1 draw against Arsenal last Saturday.

Adam Webster, who replaced Igor in the second half against the Gunners, has only just returned from a lengthy hamstring problem and Jan Paul van Hecke is Albion’s only other senior defender.

Webster and van Hecke maybe forced to start at Norwich but Hurzeler has the option of turning to the untested McConville, who made his full international debut in the previous international break against Belarus and then his first start for his country in the 0-0 draw against Luxembourg.

“I knew I was on standby and you never know if you may get called in,” said McConville of his call-up to the Belfast Telegraph last November. “I got the email and the coaches at Brighton told me I was called in and even then I couldn’t wipe the smile off my face.

“I was just buzzing and couldn’t wait to get in and around the group. I’ve learned so much here and hopefully there’s many more opportunities to come.”

The 6ft 3in centre back has been training with Hurzeler’s first team group throughout this season and has also captained the Brighton under-21s and Northern Ireland under-19s.