Opponent Watch: Brighton could be without five key players for Chelsea clash tonight

Injury News and Covid-19 Update: Brighton could have 5 players out for clash vs Chelsea but Tuchel is not without his own concerns

According to football.london, Brighton have around 5 Covid-19 and injury-related concerns ahead of the clash against Chelsea on Wednesday night.

Graham Potter’s side is set to travel to Stamford Bridge tonight on the back of a resounding 2-0 victory against Brentford on Boxing Day. However, the English manager has around five concerns going into the game against the European champions.

Leandro Trossard, who scored the opener on Sunday, had to be substituted after picking up an injury. Potter later confirmed that it was a precautionary decision after the winger felt some tightness in his hamstring. He also stated later, via Sussex Live, that the player shall have to be assessed over the next 24-48 hours. 

Apart from the Belgian, Lewis Dunk is also nursing an injury. Dan Burn also apparently popped his shoulder while Shane Duffy tested positive for Covid-19, according to Brighton Hove Independent (h/t football.london). Joel Veltman missed the weekend game but could be back as he is only suffering from fatigue. 

Chelsea have their injury and Covid-19 issues

The Seagulls might have some concerns, but the Blues are also not short of problems. Romelu Lukaku and Callum Hudson-Odoi did make a timely return on Sunday, with both players proving pivotal in the 3-1 victory at Villa Park. 

However, it remains to be seen whether the rest of the contingent have recovered from the Covid-19 disease. It was also recently confirmed that Ben Chilwell shall undergo surgery, which is likely to keep him out of action until the end of the season. 

N’Golo Kante and Thiago Silva had to be substituted on Sunday following a knock to each of them. Thankfully, the former returned to training on Tuesday and could be in contention. Mateo Kovacic is still getting back to full fitness since returning from suffering an injury and contracting the Covid-19 disease.

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Thus, Thomas Tuchel might be wary about playing quite a few of his star men. However, he could take some solace in the fact that the Seagulls will also have some concerns and might not be able to field their best XI. Regardless, Chelsea need to secure three points, especially after Liverpool lost to Leicester City on Tuesday night.

Such moments can turn the title race on its head. Taking Brighton lightly, especially after the fact they may have some of their key players out, can prove to be costly. We managed to win at the Amex last season but played out a disappointing 0-0 draw against Potter’s men at Stamford Bridge. Tuchel must ensure that we do not manage a repeat of that tonight.