Brighton & Hove Albion manager Fabian Hurzeler provided clarity on why Kaoru Mitoma, one of the team’s standout players, was unavailable for the 1-1 draw against Newcastle United at the Amex Stadium. After a series of strong performances from Mitoma, it was a surprise to many when he was left out of the squad for this critical Premier League fixture.
Mitoma has been dealing with a heel injury sustained in a recent 2-1 defeat to Crystal Palace, and while he came off the bench to score in his last two appearances against Brentford and West Ham, Hurzeler confirmed that the Japanese winger was not fit enough to feature against Newcastle.
In his post-match interview, Hurzeler explained the situation in more detail. He addressed how the injury had hampered Mitoma’s ability to fully recover, making it impossible for him to play against the Champions League-chasing Magpies.
“When did I decide? I don’t have to decide anything, because he was not able. So he just has problems with his heel, and hopefully he will be back soon.” — Fabian Hurzeler
Mitoma’s Injury: A Bigger Concern Than Expected
Although Hurzeler had initially stated that Mitoma would be available for the Newcastle match, it became apparent that his heel injury was still causing enough discomfort to rule him out. Reports also suggested that Mitoma was struggling with a lower back issue, but Hurzeler clarified that the heel injury was the primary concern, and it was this that ultimately kept him out of the matchday squad.
Mitoma has been a key player for Brighton this season, with 10 goals and 3 assists, and his absence was felt during the 1-1 draw. His dynamic attacking play has been one of the driving forces behind Brighton’s push for European qualification, and many fans were left wondering if his injury might affect their chances as the season progresses.
Despite his setback, Hurzeler remained hopeful that Mitoma would recover in time to feature in their next match, which will see Brighton face Wolves away.
VAR Drama and a Draw for Newcastle
While Mitoma’s absence was a talking point, the match itself was full of drama, with Newcastle United leaving the Amex Stadium with a 1-1 draw thanks to a late penalty by Alexander Isak. The match saw a series of VAR interventions, including two overturned penalties for Newcastle and one that eventually stood, allowing Isak to score his 27th goal of the season.
Newcastle initially fell behind in the match, as Yankuba Minteh, a former Newcastle player, put Brighton ahead. However, Isak’s penalty in the dying minutes salvaged a crucial point for Newcastle, keeping them in 4th place in the Premier League, three points clear of the teams chasing them for Champions League qualification.
“I think that is what VAR is there for. If Anthony’s [Gordon] is outside the box, that’s the right decision. If Joe’s [Willock] is not touched, that’s the right decision. I’ve got no issue with those calls, if that’s the case.” — Eddie Howe, Newcastle Manager
Brighton 1 – 1 Newcastle match stats
| Statistic | Brighton | Newcastle |
|---|---|---|
| Goals | 1 | 1 |
| Possession | 45.9% | 54.1% |
| Shots on Target | 2 | 5 |
| Total Shots | 5 | 13 |
| Corners | 1 | 4 |
| Fouls | 15 | 10 |
| Yellow Cards | 2 | 1 |
| Red Cards | 0 | 0 |
Key Call-Outs:
- Kaoru Mitoma missed the Newcastle match due to a persistent heel injury that he has been struggling with since the Crystal Palace defeat.
- Brighton secured a 1-1 draw against Newcastle, with Alexander Isak converting a penalty after two earlier spot-kicks were overturned by VAR.
- Mitoma has been in strong form this season, contributing 10 goals and 3 assists.
- Hurzeler expects Mitoma to return to action soon, with Brighton facing Wolves in their next match.
What’s Next for Brighton?
As for Brighton, Hurzeler will be hoping that Mitoma can return to the fold soon, as his side looks to build on their 1-1 draw and push for a European spot in the Premier League. Their next test comes against Wolves, and they will need their star player to regain fitness for this important fixture.
Do you think Kaoru Mitoma's injury will impact Brighton’s European hopes? Share your thoughts below!
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