Nigerian striker Femi Azeez has been ruled out of Saturday’s Premier League showdown against Leeds United at the Amex, as Fabian Hurzeler’s side look to keep their momentum rolling.
“We Have To Wait”: Azeez Sidelined With Slight KnockIt’s bad news for the Seagulls and for Azeez.
Speaking in Friday’s press conference, Hurzeler confirmed the Nigerian forward is “carrying a slight injury at the moment.”
“With Femi, we have to wait this weekend and hopefully he will be available for the next game,” the Brighton boss said.The timing stings. Brighton are flying, coming off back-to-back 4-0 thrashings of Tromso and Aston Villa.
But Leeds arrive unbeaten in the league and full of confidence.Azeez isn’t the only absentee. Midfielder Mats Wieffer is expected out until the international break.
Hurzeler called it “very unlucky.” There is some hope, though. “Chema can definitely be an option for tomorrow,” Hurzeler said.
Georginio and Yasin Ayari “might be options” as well.“All the injuries are very unlucky with how they happened,” he added. “But it’s also a great opportunity for others to step in now.
We have to go day by day.”Kaoru Mitoma remains out too, with the Japanese winger not expected back until after the international break.
Amex Revenge On The Line
History adds spice to this one. Brighton hammered Leeds 3-0 at the Amex last November.
But the Whites had the last laugh in May, snatching a 1-0 win at Elland Road thanks to a late Dominic Calvert-Lewin winner.Now, without Azeez’s pace and power up front, Brighton must find another way to break down a stubborn Leeds.
Kickoff can’t come soon enough. The Seagulls want three more points. Leeds want to stay perfect. And Azeez will be watching from the stands, hoping his knock clears fast.
