Brighton's Fati and Lamptey Out Amid Europa League Challenge

 Brighton's Fati and Lamptey Out Amid Europa League Challenge

Ansu Fati of Brighton & Hove Albion is challenged by Jack Robinson of Sheffield United during the Premier League match between Brighton & Hove Albion and Sheffield United at American Express Community Stadium on November 12, 2023 in Brighton, England(Image-Getty)

Brighton & Hove Albion's forward Ansu Fati and defender Tariq Lamptey are set for an extended period on the sidelines due to injuries sustained during the weekend, according to manager Roberto De Zerbi. The setbacks occurred in the first half of Brighton's triumphant 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest, breaking their six-game winless streak in the Premier League.

With key players like Kaoru Mitoma, Danny Welbeck, Solly March, and Julio Enciso already sidelined, the injury woes deepen for Brighton as they prepare to face AEK Athens in the Europa League. De Zerbi expressed the gravity of the situation, stating, "Ansu and Lamptey are both injured. We have lost them for a long time, I think."

Despite the adversity, Brighton currently holds the second spot in Group B with seven points from four games, just one point behind Marseille. Having suffered a defeat to AEK in the campaign opener, Brighton seeks redemption in Athens.

The extensive injury list poses a challenge, but De Zerbi urged his team to focus on the available players. "We will have to compete. I don't know if we will win, but we will fight to win the game for sure," he affirmed. Brighton aims to overcome the hurdles and maintain their competitive spirit in the Europa League encounter.