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...
5. Jan Paul van Hecke - CB
Brighton will be keen to get their excellent defender back from his groin issue as soon as possible. Photo: Eddie Keogh
6. Pervis Estupinan - LB
The Ecuador international just about gets the nod at left back ahead of Ferdi Kadıoğlu. Photo: Mike Hewitt
7. Carlos Baleba - CM
One of Brighton's best players this season and a powerful and skilful midfielder. Photo: Paul Hazlewood
8. Matt O'Riley - CM
The former Celtic man will hope to establish himself in central midfield once he returns from injury. Faces stiff competition from Wieffer and Hinshelwood Photo: Mike Hewitt