At a glance
- Opta predicts Brighton to finish seventh in the Premier League table
- Albion remain firmly in the hunt for European qualification
- Wayne Rooney praised Brighton as one of the Premier League’s best-run clubs
Brighton and Hove Albion head into Sunday’s trip to Leeds United knowing the dream of European football remains firmly alive.
Fabian Hurzeler’s side currently sit seventh in the Premier League standings and Opta’s latest predictions suggest the Seagulls are on course to secure a return to Europe next season.
With just two matches left to play the battle for continental qualification is reaching boiling point. Bournemouth currently occupy sixth place on 55 points while Brighton sit just behind on 53. Brentford remain outsiders on 51 points.
The Seagulls have momentum on their side after the commanding 3-0 victory against Wolves at the Amex and supporters are beginning to believe another memorable campaign could end with European nights returning to Sussex once again.
Opta Predicts Brighton Finish in European Places
Statistics experts at Opta have crunched the numbers and their projected final table makes encouraging reading for Brighton fans.
Opta’s Predicted Final Premier League Table
| Position | Team | Expected Points |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arsenal | 83.56 |
| 2 | Manchester City | 80.39 |
| 3 | Manchester United | 68.19 |
| 4 | Liverpool | 62.31 |
| 5 | Aston Villa | 61.07 |
| 6 | Bournemouth | 57.51 |
| 7 | Brighton | 56.12 |
| 8 | Brentford | 53.78 |
| 9 | Everton | 52.08 |
| 10 | Chelsea | 52.05 |
While Bournemouth are still projected to edge sixth place, Opta’s figures strongly back Brighton to secure at least seventh and a European place.
There is also growing hope among Albion supporters that sixth could still be achievable depending on results elsewhere and Aston Villa’s Europa League final against Freiburg on May 20 in Istanbul.
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Brighton Fixtures Could Shape European Race
The race could go right down to the final day of the campaign.
Remaining Fixtures
| Club | Remaining Matches |
|---|---|
| Brighton | Leeds United (a), Manchester United (h) |
| Bournemouth | Manchester City (h), Nottingham Forest (a) |
| Brentford | Crystal Palace (h), Liverpool (a) |
Brighton’s final home clash against Manchester United could prove decisive although United have already sealed Champions League qualification.
Albion know that strong performances against Leeds and United could yet open the door to an even higher finish.
Wayne Rooney Praises Brighton and Fabian Hurzeler
Former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney praised Brighton while speaking on Match of the Day and backed the Seagulls to be playing European football next season.
“Yeah, I think they’re tough fixtures [for Brighton]. Brighton are a fantastic team. They’ve shown that all season. And I think it’s safe to say that they pretty look sure to be playing European football at some stage next season.
“They have had a season, of course, in Europe before. But having Fabian Herzeler’s contract secured as well for a few more years, that was announced this week.
“That certainty shows what a well-run club it is. I think they’re one of the best run clubs in the Premier League. And it’s no surprise that they’re doing well.”
Rooney’s comments reflect the growing admiration for Brighton across the Premier League with Hurzeler continuing to build on the club’s reputation for smart recruitment, fearless football and long-term planning.
Also Read: Opta Supercomputer Backs Brighton for Leeds Clash After Wolves Masterclass
Brighton Still Have Sixth Place in Sight
Although seventh place would likely bring European football there remains a realistic route for Brighton to climb even higher.
Goal difference could also play a crucial role with Albion currently holding a healthy +10 compared to Bournemouth’s +4.
After the recent Wolves masterclass confidence is building at exactly the right time and the Seagulls now head to Elland Road knowing the numbers, the form and the belief all point towards another exciting finish to the season.
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