'I can't go on' - Carlos Baleba's shock admission to Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler
Brighton vs Everton in the Premier League from the Amex Stadium - Saturday, 3pm
Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler said he had to substitute Carlos Baleba during the 2-1 loss at Fulham last Saturday.
Baleba played well for 80- minutes at Craven Cottage but was replaced by Albion's veteran midfielder James Milner in the final stages.
It was Baleba's first start for Brighton since returning from the Afcon with Cameroon.
It was a substitution that was heavily criticised by some sections of the Albion support this week but Hurzeler's admission shows there's often more to these things than meets the eye.
"He was just tired," explained Hurzler in his press conference ahead of Saturday's Premier League clash against Everton. "So he came to the bench. He said, 'I'm exhausted. I can't go on'.
"And then we have to make a change. That's normal in a football game.
Hurzeler added: "I think it's really important to, to let the emotions be part of this game.
“To share your opinion, to be honest about performances, the decisions the head coaches.
“But I think sometimes it is also important to understand the background.
“To understand some reasons behind that and therefore that was the only reason we took him off.
"He was tired and exhausted and I think it is better to have a fresh player on the pitch."
Overall the performance from Baleba was encouraging and a big step forward from his inconsistent displays so far this term.
The 22-year-old continues to be linked with summer move to Manchester United but he will be a key figure for Brighton in the second half of the season.
He has trained this week and should be fit to face Everton this Saturday.
The Baleba issue has been just one problem for Hurzeler this week as some fans have expressed increasing frustration on Brighton's recent results, and Hurzeler’s tactics.
Hurzeler: We must stick to our way
Hurzeler acknowledged the criticism, said he understands but also stressed that Brighton remain on the right path.
"I am very pleased for for the support, away also against Fulham. They were there and helping us and our home games they are there and helping us.
"I understand, again, the frustration sometimes. We all want to win, especially they want to win because they spend so much money, so much time for us.
"So they want to enjoy the win at the weekend and it's our responsibility to give that to them and we will give everything for them."
Hurzeler also said it’s been business as usual this week, despite just one win in their last 10 Premier League matches.
"We didn't change anything because I'm also quite convinced we are on the right way. I'm convinced that just small margins will make the difference.
"We all very positive that, in the end of the season, we are there where we should be and, for that, we all work, but we stay and we stick to our principles, especially I stick to my principles."