At a glance
- Brighton Confirm Kaoru Mitoma Injury after Fabian Hurzeler revealed the winger will miss the final two Premier League matches.
- Fabian Hurzeler confirmed the Japan international suffered a hamstring injury
- Mats Wieffer and Diego Gomez could return against Leeds United
Brighton and Hove Albion have confirmed a major injury setback for Kaoru Mitoma just as the Seagulls push for European qualification.
The Japan international limped off during last weekend’s impressive 3-0 victory against Wolves at the Amex after suffering a hamstring issue and Fabian Hurzeler has now revealed the winger will miss Brighton’s final two Premier League fixtures.
Mitoma’s absence is a significant blow for Albion given the 28-year-old’s recent form and influence in the final third. The news will also be closely monitored in Japan ahead of this summer’s World Cup preparations.
Brighton travel to Leeds United this Sunday before ending the campaign at home to Manchester United on May 24.
Brighton confirm Kaoru Mitoma injury ahead of Leeds trip
Speaking ahead of the trip to Elland Road, Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler confirmed Mitoma will not feature again this season.
“He [Mitoma] will be out. He will miss the next two games.”
Hurzeler also admitted there is uncertainty surrounding Mitoma’s recovery timeline ahead of Japan’s World Cup campaign.
“Regarding the World Cup I’m not sure yet. We will be in touch with the Japan federation.”
The Brighton boss acknowledged the scale of the setback but insisted his squad are capable of stepping up in Mitoma’s absence.
It is a big blow. We have a big squad and we have showed this season we can replace important players. We see it as a chance to stick together. Everyone in this team can have an impact. It’s a blow but an opportunity.”
Read more: Opta Predicts Brighton Will Secure European Football as Race Intensifies
Fabian Hurzeler delivers cautious Mitoma update
Hurzeler stressed that Brighton’s medical staff will take no risks with Mitoma’s recovery and warned patience will be required.
“We really have to be patient with this injury we cannot give a clear schedule. He will miss our two games. That is sad for Kaoru. He was in good form and had a big impact on our performances. He need to take care of his privacy and his health.”
Mitoma has once again been one of Brighton’s standout performers this season with his pace, movement and finishing proving crucial in Albion’s push for Europe.
His absence leaves a sizeable gap in Brighton’s attack at a critical stage of the campaign.
Also read: Why Yankuba Minteh Will Be Key Against Leeds United
Brighton receive positive news on Mats Wieffer and Diego Gomez
There was more encouraging injury news elsewhere for Albion supporters as Hurzeler confirmed Mats Wieffer and Diego Gomez are both pushing for returns against Leeds.
Mats Wieffer has recently struggled with an ankle problem while Diego Gomez has remained sidelined since suffering a knee injury during the dramatic 2-2 draw away at Tottenham.
Both players are now in contention to feature at Elland Road which could provide Brighton with a timely boost as they look to secure European football for next season.
After the confidence boosting 3-0 win against Wolves the Seagulls head to Yorkshire knowing victory could strengthen their grip on a top-seven finish.
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