'His health' – Brighton boss reveals troubles for ex-Leeds United ace after £40m transfer
All the latest team news for Brighton ahead of Nottingham Forest
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler has explained his decision to limit the playing time of record signing Georginio Rutter.
Rutter, who was signed from Leeds for £40million in August, started the 4-0 win over Norwich in the FA Cup earlier this month and scored twice at Carrow Road before being substituted after 63 minutes.
The 22-year-old has since been limited to substitute appearances in the last three Premier League matches – scoring against both Ipswich and Manchester United – due to minor muscle problems.
“There have been some small issues with his muscles and therefore we also need to protect his health,” Hurzeler said ahead of Saturday’s trip to Nottingham Forest.
“I know that it is not always understandable why we choose the starting 11, but there are so many things going on.
“The main thing for me is that I am responsible for the person behind the player, to protect him and protect his health.
“It’s not only a decision about performance, especially when young players get injured.”
Rutter’s goal in the 3-1 win at Old Trafford took his tally for the season to six and Hurzeler has been impressed with the summer signing.
“I think every player has a different profile,” Hurzeler said.
“He’s very athletic. He has a good left foot. He always finds good solutions in one-against-one duels, he always finds a way out.
“He can use his body quite well. He’s not only a good finisher, he’s also quite good at making assists and finding the free team-mates. I like his profile and I like working with him.”
Rutter is set to face more competition for playing time with Evan Ferguson on course to return to the Seagulls squad following injury.
The 20-year-old forward has not featured since the 1-1 draw at West Ham on December 21 but returned to training on Wednesday and was said to be in “good shape” by Hurzeler.
Solly March, Mats Wieffer and Pervis Estupinan are not expected to be available as Brighton look to bounce back from last weekend’s home to defeat to Everton, the 1-0 loss ending a seven-game unbeaten run in all competitions.