Brighton V Stoke - Preview and possible line-ups
We take a look ahead to Monday's Premier League game between Brighton and Stoke at the Amex.
Brighton: 'Seagulls' boss Chris Hughton has no fresh injury concernes ahead of the game, thought it is thought that goalkeeper Matt Ryan will be monitored after his international exertions with Australia and the large amount of travelling he has done. Veteran midfielder Steve Sidwell remains on the sidelines with a back problem.
Stoke: The 'Potters' will be without No 1 goalkeeper Jack Butland after he broke a finger on England duty, meaning that Lee Grant will step in. Nevertheless, manager Mark Hughes is hopeful that Butland will be out for no longer than a month as he also deals with the absence of utility man Geoff Cameron, who suffered a bad concussion in training almost three weeks ago.
The thoughts of Brighton boss Chris Hughton pre-match:
"Going into the international break winning at Swansea was massive because we knew the schedule that was coming up over the next six weeks and into the Christmas period and new year.
"There'll be a period that will test us and give us an indication of where we are, but we knew that was coming and we have to be prepared for it - whether that is over the upcoming weeks or in the latter half of the season."
The thoughts of Stoke boss Mark Hughes pre-match:
"Sometimes familiarity breeds a little bit of contempt and sometimes when you've been around for a long time people don't appreciate what you bring to the table in terms of experience and knowledge, and understanding what's required at this level.
"Chris is one of those that has had a great career, he's had success, promotions and been at good clubs and predominantly been a success at those clubs so I don't think anybody should underestimate what he's been able to do as a manager, and credit to him.
Did you know?
Stoke have won their previous eight games in a row against Brighton in all competitions, keeping five clean sheets in the process.
Brighton have never won this fixture in the top flight (D3, L5).
Form:
Possible line-ups:
Brighton: Ryan, Bruno, Duffy, Dunk, Bong, Knochaert, Stephens, Propper, Izquierdo, Gross, Murray.
Stoke: Grant, Zouma, Shawcross, Wimmer, Diouf, Allen, Flethcer, Pieters, Shaqiri, Choupo-Moting, Sobhi.