Fabian Hurzeler says Brighton & Hove Albion captain Lewis Dunk still has a big part to play for his side with his leadership qualities for the rest of the season.
The central defender is available for Saturday’s FA Cup quarter-final at home to Nottingham Forest after missing the last six matches with a rib injury.
Brighton were level at half-time at 1-1 with Chelsea when Dunk was forced out of the third round tie at the Amex Stadium in early February. They went on to win 2-1, a result which launched a run of six victories and a draw in Dunk’s absence.
Brighton head coach Hurzeler is nevertheless relieved to have Dunk back to lead the challenge to qualify for Europe by winning the FA Cup or via a high league finish.
“Especially in this part of the season it’s very important,” Hurzeler told The Athletic at his press conference this morning for Forest’s visit. “First of all, because he is our skipper. He is a leader on and off the pitch and you need leaders in this phase of the season.
“Second, he is still a great player, who can have a big impact in possession and out of possession. It is very important to have him back for the final part of the season. Hopefully, he will stay fit, then I am sure he will have some great games, some great performances.
“He is really motivated and really keen to be back on the pitch helping the team. Of course, you can say we are doing well without him, but I am always convinced that the more leaders you have on the pitch, especially the captain, the more successful you are.”
Solly March is also expected to be back in contention for this weekend’s game. (Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
Dunk’s Brighton teammate Solly March is also expected to be back in contention after missing the 2-2 league draw at Manchester City before the international break.
Hurzeler is not aware of any issues with the 13 players on duty for their countries over the past two weeks that will hinder their involvement against Forest, including Joao Pedro (Brazil) and Kaoru Mitoma (Japan).
“So far, so good,” he said. “I haven’t seen them, but from what I’ve heard they are in quite a good mood. Of course, there are small issues, especially Mitoma after his first game, but I think that they will both be fine and both can start the game.”
England under-21 international Jack Hinshelwood will continue to fill in at right-back, with Joel Veltman still days away from returning from five games out with a foot injury and Tariq Lamptey ruled out for several weeks by an ankle injury sustained in training which sidelined him from the Manchester City match.
(Matt McNulty/Getty Images)