Brighton & Hove Albion have been dealt a significant double injury blow ahead of their Premier League clash with West Ham United this weekend, handing the visiting Hammers a potential advantage.
Mitoma's Comeback Halted by Training Setback
Seagulls' head coach Fabian Hurzeler confirmed on Friday that star winger Kaoru Mitoma has suffered a fresh setback in his recovery from a foot injury. The Japan international, who has not played since September, had recently returned to training and was nearing a first-team comeback.
"He had a small setback during the training session, not a big one," Hurzeler stated. "Hopefully he can train today and then for sure we try to make him as quick as possible an option for us. He's still an option, so let's see."
The potential absence of the player Hurzeler has previously labelled a 'special talent' is a clear boost for West Ham. Mitoma scored in Brighton's 3-2 win over the Hammers last April and was instrumental in a 4-0 victory at the Amex in 2023, contributing a goal and an assist.
Tzimas Ruled Out Long-Term After Villa Clash
Brighton's injury woes were compounded by news on striker Stefanos Tzimas. The £22 million summer signing limped off after just 20 minutes of the midweek 4-3 defeat to Aston Villa and now faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
"I don't have great news today," Hurzeler admitted. "Stefanos we have to further assess him, but at the moment, it looks like a long-term injury... I would say months [on how long he will be out]."
This leaves Brighton significantly short of attacking options as they seek to bounce back from the painful Villa loss, where they surrendered a 2-0 lead.
Context and Consequences for Sunday's Fixture
The teams meet at the Amex Stadium on Sunday, with Brighton looking to repeat their dramatic injury-time win from last April, secured by Carlos Baleba. West Ham, however, will travel with renewed confidence knowing two key threats may be absent.
Hurzeler's praise for Mitoma last season underscores the scale of the loss. "You don't see regularly special things like this," the coach said after a stunning goal against Chelsea. "He is able to do special things... he has a special talent."
For West Ham manager David Moyes, the news mitigates one of the home side's most potent weapons, potentially altering his tactical approach for a crucial away fixture.
