Gomez needs 'bit of time' before Brighton debut - Hurzeler

Brighton announced on December 10 the 21-year-old Paraguay international midfielder would join them on New Year's Day. Hurzeler, speaking about Gomez ahead of Saturday's Premier League match at home to Arsenal, said: "He had now two or three weeks of holiday because in the MLS (Major League Soccer), the season has finished.

"So he needs for sure a little bit of time. But I am sure he is in a great shape. "He trained hard during his holiday (from) what I heard and I am really looking forward to seeing him as quick as possible on the pitch." Former Gunners forward Danny Welbeck, out since November with an ankle issue, won't face his old club this weekend.

"I can't say a clear schedule for when he will be back," Hurzeler told the Brighton Argus about the 34-year-old Welbeck. "It can be next week, it can be real quick. But it can take two, three, four more weeks. "He is without any pain, so that's a really good thing. And he is back on the pitch. But we have to go day by day and hopefully he can be back soon."

Adam Webster could return, having not featured since October and fellow defender Pervis Estupinan may be available after missing the 2-2 draw at Aston Villa on Monday. South coast side Brighton are 10th in the table after a seven-match winless run featuring five draws, including their last three games. In August, they drew 1-1 at Arsenal, who are on a three-match winning run in the league and second in the table.