Preview: Gross set for second debut against Burnley – Brighton vs Burnley

Pascal Gross is set for his second debut with Brighton against Burnley. Recently returned from Borussia Dortmund, he aims to help end Brighton’s winless streak. Meanwhile, Danny Welbeck is on the bench following a mixed performance midweek. Burnley, also struggling, seek their first win since October.

INMR

January 3, 2026

2–3 minutes

BHABUR, Brighton and Hove Albion, Brighton vs Burnley, Burnley, Fabian Hurzeler, Match Preview, news, Noah Mitchell, Pascal Gross, Pascal Gross Brighton, PL, Premier League, Premier League 2025/26, Premier League Preview, Preview, Scott Parker

Pascal Gross could make his second debut for Brighton when the Seagulls host Burnley at the Amex later this afternoon.

The German, who has just re-joined from Borussia Dortmund, made over 250 appearances for the club during his first spell before leaving in August 2024.

If Gross is to make an impact, it will have to be from the bench after he was named amongst the substitutes.

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Speaking on his return, boss Fabian Hurzeler said: “I think he’s a quality player”.

“He has a big impact on scoring goals and creating chances… we missed the quality player.”

Albion fans will be hoping Gross can spark his side’s season back into life – with Brighton currently winless in their past six games.

This leaves today’s hosts lingering in 14th position, albeit 11 points above the relegation places.

In fact, victory today will leapfrog Brighton into eighth place temporarily, ahead of the rest of the weekend’s fixtures.

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Meanwhile, Danny Welbeck has been dropped to the bench after an eventful game last time out where he scored one and missed one penalty against West Ham.

Today’s visitors will also be looking to start the new year off with a victory, the Clarets haven’t won a match since October and sit six points off safety.

However, they will be buoyed by their form at the Amex, Scott Parker’s side have never lost here in their six meetings, winning two of those.

Albion supporters had been handed a boost ahead of the match, with Japanese forward Kaoru Mitoma declared fit to start the match by Hurzeler.

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Hurzeler said: “Mitoma can be an option from the start… we know he’s a quality player for us, so therefore we are happy that he’s back.

However, another winger, Yankuba Minteh fails to make the squad after picking up a knock in the 2-2 draw against West Ham on Tuesday.

The Gambian picked up a dead leg, with Hurzeler admitting that he was going to see how training went on Friday before making a final decision.

So, a big afternoon ahead with both managers feeling the pressure. It looks set to be a tense afternoon on a very chilly south coast.