Fabian Hurzeler explains Yasin Ayari Chelsea absence and gives contract update

Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler has played down concerns over Yasin Ayari's future as the midfielder missed the Premier League clash with Chelsea through injury.

The 22-year-old was a surprise absentee at Stamford Bridge after featuring in both legs of Brighton's Conference League play-off against Tromso and the 4-0 Premier League victory over Aston Villa.

Ayari's absence comes at a difficult time for Brighton, with Hurzeler already without several important players and the Sweden international entering the final year of his contract.

Ayari is believed to have suffered an injury that prevented him from being available against Chelsea.

His absence added to Brighton's growing list of fitness problems, with Kaoru Mitoma, Yankuba Minteh, Georginio and Jack Hinshelwood also sidelined.

Losing another midfielder is particularly significant following the changes Brighton have experienced in that area of the squad.

Carlos Baleba joined Manchester United in a deal worth up to £70million this summer, while experienced midfielder James Milner retired at the end of last season.

Those departures have increased Ayari's importance to Hurzeler's plans as Brighton balance Premier League football with their Conference League and domestic cup commitments.

Ayari's current Brighton contract expires next summer, meaning his long-term future has become another issue for the club to address.

However, Hurzeler insists supporters should not be overly concerned.

“No, I think that the fans won't have to be concerned,” the Brighton manager said.

“We are in an exchange with him. Yasin knows that the club gives him a big chance and he used it in a very impressive way.”

Hurzeler also highlighted the characteristics that have helped Ayari establish himself within Brighton's first-team setup.

“He's one of the hardest workers. He's one of the quickest learners,” he said.

“He has this intrinsic motivation to improve every day and that's something outstanding.”

Brighton's reputation for developing younger players remains an important part of the club's position during negotiations.

Hurzeler believes both sides understand what the relationship offers.

“We know what we have in Yasin, Yasin knows what he has at this club,” he said.

“So therefore, I'm quite convinced that we find good solutions.”

Allowing Ayari's contract situation to remain unresolved for too long would carry obvious risks, particularly given his increased importance following Baleba's departure.

Hurzeler's comments, though, indicate Brighton remain confident that negotiations can produce a positive outcome.

Brighton will assess Ayari's fitness and hope his absence proves short-lived given the club's growing injury list and busy schedule.

Away from the pitch, negotiations over a new contract will continue. Hurzeler's confidence suggests Brighton expect to retain the midfielder, but reaching an agreement will become increasingly important as Ayari moves closer to the final months of his current deal.