Fabian Hurzeler Previews Arsenal vs Brighton Clash in Carabao Cup
Brighton & Hove Albion manager Fabian Hurzeler addressed the media ahead of the Carabao Cup match against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. The match is set to kick off at 19:45 GMT on Wednesday.
Team News for Brighton
Brighton faces injury challenges as veteran midfielder James Milner is sidelined due to a minor muscle issue. Hurzeler noted that both Kaoru Mitoma and Brajan Gruda are making progress towards recovery but will not be available for this fixture. However, there is optimism with Joel Veltman also nearing a return.
Upcoming Squad Availability
- James Milner: Unavailable (muscle issue)
- Kaoru Mitoma: Close to return, not ready
- Brajan Gruda: Close to return, not ready
- Joel Veltman: Approaching fitness
Previewing the Arsenal Match
Hurzeler acknowledged Arsenal’s current form, stating, “The table tells the truth.” He emphasized their effectiveness in defense and set pieces, highlighting their disciplined style. Arsenal poses a formidable challenge, particularly in their ability to exploit set pieces.
Defensive Preparedness
Despite the challenges posed by Arsenal, Hurzeler expressed confidence in Brighton’s defensive capabilities. He stated, “We are quite good in defending,” showing faith in his squad’s skills against the Gunners. He highlighted the importance of set pieces in the Premier League and the need for Brighton to develop a strong set-piece culture.
Squad Rotation and Youth Trust
As Brighton prepares for the match, Hurzeler discussed the importance of squad rotation. He noted the trust placed in younger players, asserting that age is less relevant than quality. Balancing experience with youth is essential for achieving success.
This upcoming match in the Carabao Cup promises to be a crucial test for Brighton against a strong Arsenal side. Fans eagerly anticipate how the team will adapt and perform in this high-stakes encounter.