Brighton have had a quite remarkable start to the season under new head coach, Fabian Hürzeler. Unbeaten heading into the international break, with notable wins against Manchester United and Everton.
What’s new?
United is the moment that has stood out in fans’ minds and has been a key testament to the character and style that the new Texas-born coach is trying to implement at the club. Joāo Pedro scored with a header at the back post in stoppage time, after an interesting lunchtime kick-off at the Amex. Hürzeler’s new foundations to breed a positive mentality and emphasise ‘German pressing’ in a modern, refreshing way. Brighton’s style isn’t too dissimilar to what existed before with Roberto De Zerbi and Graham Potter; but a slightly lessened concern towards playing out from the back, and more to take opportunities as they arise. Of course, the two can certainly co-exist with the influx of new signings in the squad.
(Photo by Charlotte Wilson via Getty Images)
The aforementioned Pedro moment was a serious test of not only character but also willingness to change the team around in a vital moment. Hürzeler brought on three attack-minded players in the final minutes of the game. Georginio Rutter, Yasin Ayari, and Simon Adingra. The previous introduction for Carlos Baleba had already tilted the phase of play. Adingra added an extra spark and set up the goal with a cool ball across the box in the 95th minute. As managers, making the correct calls at the correct times will always be the most significant; and it happened again against Arsenal at the Emirates. It could be something to keep an eye on this season.
Injury news?
Ferdi Kadıoğlu ‘could’ make his debut, as confirmed in today’s press conference by Fabian Hüreler. Brajan Gruda and Mats Wieffer are subject to late tests before the game, but it could come slightly too early for them. Matt O’Riley will remain out, as expected for some time.
(Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
The word of the away end…
Having spoken to a fellow contributor on TSR, ITFC Vision, he says…
“Ipswich have threats that can problem the Brighton defence. Players like Sammy Szmodics, who was the Championship top goalscorer last season with 27 goals, and Liam Delap; who has looked promising so far in these opening 3 games.
The problem could also come on the attack, as Jacob Geeaves so far has asserted himself in that Ipswich town starting lineup – playing a key part of Town’s defence so far”
(Photo by Visionhaus)
From the outside looking in, Ipswich are seriously impressive. A lot of their success can be echoed for Brighton in recent years, and the rapid rise that Kieran McKenna has contributed to cannot go without its due praise. The common feeling towards the game is that Brighton are favourites, but with Ipswich searching for their first win after coping relatively well with their tough start, it could be a big test for both sides.
McKenna was tipped to become the Brighton manager during the summer, before snubbing the opportunity to remain as Ipswich boss for the season and signing a new contract in the process. Albion fans alike tend to give the rightful admiration towards the rarity of a modern football person willing to commit to staying at the club that has helped raise them! It has to be said, this could be an intriguing tactical battle. Bloom doesn’t tend to miss when identifying players and managers… Hürzeler vs McKenna could be a brilliant one to watch for neutrals.
