Kaoru Mitoma’s season-ending injury forces a tactical reshuffle, thrusting Yankuba Minteh and the returning Diego Gomez into pivotal roles as Fabian Hürzeler targets a vital European breakthrough.
Brighton's team news was confirmed earlier today by Fabian Hürzeler in his press conference.
The Seagulls take on a difficult Leeds side, in a game vital for their European push.
Notably, Kaoru Mitoma is set to miss the rest of the season with a hamstring injury. A huge blow for Hürzeler's side, as the left side will now need to be covered. Luckily for Albion, Yankuba Minteh has arguably been more effective from the left than the right.
Minteh plays like a very traditional winger, and when operating from the left, he doesn't require cutting back onto his left-foot. His crossing ability is very dangerous, and has led to multiple goals this season, and that ability is emphasised when he is playing off the left.
With that being said, Minteh playing left-wing leaves a gap on the right. Luckily, Diego Gomez is back available, and the head coach has said he will "definitely be an option". The Paraguayan has played from the right wing throughout the season and has proved to be very effective.
While operating as a box-crashing midfielder, his value and versatility are not necessarily lost when on the wing. While not being the fastest, Gomez's shooting ability makes him a dangerous player from most angles, and his hard work is vital in a Hürzeler system.
Leeds will be a tough opponent, and outrunning them throughout the game will not be the easiest task. Gomez is a perfect player to counteract that.
Mats Wieffer is also available for selection.
Wieffer has been the preferred option at right-back for Hürzeler, despite being a natural midfielder. With that said, his presence opens up the opportunity for Ferdi Kadioglu to play at left back over Maxim De Cuyper.
Despite De Cuyper's brace of assists last week, Leeds are likely to be a tougher opponent. Kadioglu would be the favourable option at left-back, not least for his defensive capabilities.
The Turkish international is also capable of inverting into midfield and playing advanced off both wings, which could end up being a bonus for Hürzeler amidst Mitoma's injury.
Wieffer, if fit enough, would be the likely option to start at right-back to free up these versatile options across the pitch.
Overall, the team seems to be in fairly good shape. Despite the loss of Mitoma, most players will be available for one of the biggest games in Hürzeler's career at Brighton so far.