Brighton handed Fabian Hurzeler boost ahead of Chelsea as huge Joao Pedro injury update given
Brighton have been handed a boost ahead of their Premier League match with Chelsea this weekend as boss Fabian Hurzeler will not serve a touchline ban against the Blues.
Hurzeler was given a red card during his side's 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest last weekend, alongside Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo. It kicked off between the two sides after Morgan Gibbs-White was sent off for a foul on Seagulls forward Joao Pedro, with the FA subsequently charging Gibbs-White, Espirito Santo and Hurzeler for their actions.
Hurzeler, who was punished for stepping on to the Amex Stadium pitch after the foul on Pedro, this week had a “very respectful” conversation with Howard Webb, the chief refereeing officer of Professional Game Match Officials Limited. “I know what the fine will be and I also know that I will be on the sideline against Chelsea,” he said.
“I think that’s the most positive thing: that I can support my team, I can help my team. I also have to learn out of this situation, how fast you can get a red card here in this league. But, of course, the fine we will accept.”
Pedro will now miss the clash against Chelsea due to an ankle injury sustained during the tackle made by Gibbs-White. “This tackle you can see it in TV but you have to see it on the pitch, how hard it was, which dynamic it was,” said Hurzeler.
“It was a hard tackle and Joao had some problems after the game, he still has some problems. We have to go week for week with him. But I don’t think he will be an option for the weekend. I’m not sure how long he will be out. I think Joao is a good healer. I’m convinced he will be back soon. But of course also with this player we can’t take any risks.”
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Hurzeler said his “emotional” response to Gibbs-White’s lunge was out of concern for Pedro and he was charged by the FA with acting in an improper manner. Counterpart Nuno faces the same charge, while he is also alleged to have used abusive and/or insulting words towards a match official.
“Howard Webb is very open: he listens to me and he gives a clear explanation of the situation, how the referee saw the scene, how the fourth official saw the scene,” said Hurzeler. "It’s very important to have a good discussion and a clear discussion – how I see the things, how they see the things – because in the end you should have a good relationship.
“It’s very important we have a respectful relationship and the exchange with Howard was very respectful and very empathetic and listening and in the end I hope we will find the right solutions.”
Brighton midfielder Yasin Ayari is available to face Chelsea after illness, while summer signing Brajan Gruda could be involved following injury.