The Seagulls head coach has addressed the squad’s fitness concerns ahead of a vital Premier League encounter against Newcastle United
Fabian Hürzeler has provided an update on the availability of players such as James Milner and Solly March ahead of Brighton & Hove Albion’s clash against Newcastle United on Saturday.
Brighton are finalising their tactical preparations for a significant away fixture at St James’ Park as the race for European qualification intensifies.
Hürzeler’s side travels to the North East on the back of a series of physically demanding performances, most notably their recent 3-0 demolition of Chelsea.
Brighton sit sixth in the Premier League table, just one point ahead of seventh-placed Bournemouth, who host Crystal Palace on Sunday.
Newcastle (A) memories… 📸💫 pic.twitter.com/cTCWHijaNU
— Brighton & Hove Albion (@OfficialBHAFC) May 1, 2026
In his pre-game press conference, Hürzeler confirmed that midfielders Milner and March are set to miss the trip to Tyneside. However, the Brighton coach remained positive about their long-term outlook.
“Unfortunately, both not available, but very close, and they will be in training next week. So, I hope they will be an option [for the next game],” he said.
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Their absence creates a void in the engine room that the manager must fill while maintaining the right habits against a high-pressing Newcastle outfit. Carlos Baleba is expected to deputise for the injured veterans.
“I am quite convinced he will do it because we saw Carlos Baleba from last season,” Hürzeler told reporters. “His body language [against Chelsea] was something I really liked because he was really staying alive.”
Gómez recovery provides major lift for Seagulls
In more encouraging news for the club, Diego Gómez has made significant progress in his rehabilitation following a knee scare against Tottenham on April 18.
The Paraguayan midfielder was initially feared to have sustained a season-ending injury, but Hürzeler confirmed he is nearing a return to first-team action.
“He is back on the training pitch and he will be available, I think, next week,” he added. “Very, very happy. One of the best news in the last weeks because, when you see a player coming out of a game because of an injury and then you immediately see his face and his concern on his face and his bad emotions, it’s definitely something that influences me.”
Hürzeler’s centre-back conundrum
The Brighton coach also faces a positive selection dilemma at the heart of the defence, with Lewis Dunk having returned from suspension to challenge Olivier Boscagli for a starting spot.
Boscagli’s contribution during the Chelsea victory has given Hürzeler plenty to think about as he balances veteran leadership with recent form.
“I see it as a positive because I have two centre-backs available,” he noted. “They perform well, they played well. Ollie Boscagli had a really good game against Chelsea.
“Lewis was always there through the season so now I have to make the decision. I always make the decision that’s best for the club, what increases our percentage of winning the game, and I’m sure that both will keep giving everything.”
Pascal Gross injury confusion
Local media had initially reported that Pascal Gross would miss the game through injury. However, it appears as though the German had been confused for the update regarding Solly March, and the former Borussia Dortmund man will be available against Newcastle.
