International break has come at the perfect time for injury-hit Albion

The international break has come at a perfect time for injury-ravaged Brighton & Hove Albion, according to Chris Hughton.
Gaetan Bong will returning to training this week. Picture by Phil Westlake (PW Sporting Photography)Gaetan Bong will returning to training this week. Picture by Phil Westlake (PW Sporting Photography)
Gaetan Bong will returning to training this week. Picture by Phil Westlake (PW Sporting Photography)

The Seagulls manager is relishing the two-week break before their next game with Blackburn on August 1.

Hughton sees it a great opportunity to get his injured defensive line back to fitness.

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Captain Bruno missed Saturday’s 2-0 defeat to Leeds United with a groin injury and Sebastien Pocognoli is out with a similar problem.

Gaetan Bong is continuing his rehab work and could return to training this week, while new signing Vegard Forren is still getting up to speed with his fitness.

On whether the break is a good thing for his side, Hughton said: “I think so, but also with regards to injuries.

“We have been fine in midfield areas and up front, but at one stage we have had five defenders out injured with Bruno missing this game (Leeds United).

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“We have brought in Vegard Forren, who we have taken. He will be up to speed by our next game hopefully as he played in an under-23 game on Saturday.

“We are hoping (Sebastien) Pocognoli and possibly (Gaetan) Bong will be available by that time. So yes, it will give us a time a regroup and get some of these players back.”