Brighton’s injury crisis may provide Arsenal with a chance to boost their title hopes as they prepare to face a weakened Brighton side.
A victory against Brighton could be instrumental for Arsenal to keep up with Manchester City in the title race. Meanwhile, Brighton’s European ambitions hang in the balance. The Seagulls have been impressive this season, but their prospects of achieving European football have been hampered by their ever-growing list of injuries.
Brighton’s crushing 5-1 defeat to Everton on Monday further compounded their problems. Abdoulaye Doucoure and Dwight McNeil ran riot, each scoring twice and forcing an own goal from Jason Steele. Alexis Mac Allister’s consolation strike did little to ease the concerns of Brighton supporters.
The experienced Lallana has been ruled out for the remainder of the season due to a thigh injury, while flying fullback Lamptey’s knee problems have kept him sidelined since March. Injuries have also plagued Joel Veltman, Jakub Moder, and Jeremy Sarmiento, with their returns to the pitch shrouded in uncertainty.
Arsenal will look to capitalize on Brighton’s weakened state, and the opportunity to grab three points could be crucial in their bid for the title. Manager Mikel Arteta will be keen to ensure his side does not take the Seagulls lightly despite their injury woes.
Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi has been cagey about providing a concrete timeline for March’s return. With his involvement against Arsenal and the subsequent fixture against Newcastle United appearing increasingly doubtful, Brighton’s European dreams may be in jeopardy. The Seagulls will be hoping their remaining players can step up and deliver a result against Arsenal.
