Lewis Dunk replaces Adam Webster in defence as Brighton aim to strengthen their bid for Champions League football against Aston Villa.
It’s the Albion captain’s first start since the 7-0 defeat against Nottingham Forest two months ago.
Brajan Gruda, Diego Gomez and Simon Adingra also start to replace Georginio Rutter, Carlos Baleba and Yankuba Minteh.
Fabian Hurzeler’s side are in fantastic form in the league, having one four of their last five games.
Embed from Getty ImagesHowever, they did fall short in the FA Cup over the weekend, they lost 4-3 on penalties against Nottingham Forest.
To make matters worse, they have typically struggled against Aston Villa. In their 24 meetings, Brighton have won on just three occasions.
Their cup exit was worsened by the injuries of Webster and Rutter who will likely be out for the remainder of the season.
Hurzeler has insisted he views the injury woes as opportunities for other players.
He said: “It’s a chance for Brajan Gruda, Matt O’Riley, Eiran Cashin and Lewis Dunk is coming back. I will never complain about injuries.”
Embed from Getty ImagesThe hosts home form has been impressive this season, they have lost just twice. A win today would see them secure their fourth on the bounce at home for the first time in top flight history.
Ollie Watkins scored and assisted in the reverse fixture, but is dropped to the bench as loanee Marcus Rashford leads the line.
The match is the first of a busy month for the Villains who face PSG next week in the Champions League quarter-finals.
Embed from Getty ImagesUnai Emery said his side are “motivated” and understands that tonight’s match will be a “huge test”.
He said: “It’s amazing how we are facing the last part of the season… we are excited and demanding ourselves to be focused.”
A win for the home side could see them head into the weekend in fourth on 50 points, whilst a Villa victory would put the visitors fifth.
Embed from Getty ImagesWritten by Isabelle Newnham
INMR FOOTBALL 
Leave a comment