Brighton and Hove Albion’s huge summer investment provides head coach Fabian Hurzeler with numerous options once all the players are fit.
Albion have quite a few injuries at the moment with Adam Webster (thigh), Jan Paul van Hecke (groin), Matt O’Riley (ankle) Solly March (knee), James Milner (hamstring), Simon Adingra (muscular) and Joao Pedro (ankle) all unavailable.
Some are closer to a comeback than others and the likes of Adingra, March and Milner could be available after the international break as Brighton resume at Newcastle on October 19.
“I have different options,” said Hurzeler last month. “Of course we have (Kaoru) Mitoma, we have Georginio Rutter, who can play, we have Simon (Adingra), we have (Yakuba) Minteh. We have great opportunities to start with several options.”
Here’s Brighton’s best XI and bench once all the players are fit...
1. BRIGHTON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 06: Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler looks on ahead of the Premier League match between Brighton & Hove Albion FC and Tottenham Hotspur FC at Amex Stadium on October 06, 2024 in Brighton, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler has plenty of options Photo: Mike Hewitt
2. Bart Verbruggen - GK
Hurzeler was clear from the start that Verbruggen will be his No 1 ahead of Jason Steele. Photo: Bryn Lennon
3. Joel Veltman - RB
The ultra reliable experienced defender has made the right back spot his own this season. Photo: Steve Bardens
4. Lewis Dunk - CB
The skipper showed signs against Tottenham that he's getting back to his best form Photo: GLYN KIRK