Brighton duo Femi Azeez and Zadok Yohanna set to miss Crystal Palace game

Brighton & Hove Albion manager Fabian Hurzeler does not expect any of his injured players, including Nigerian wingers Femi Azeez and Zadok Yohanna, to return for Sunday’s Premier League meeting with Crystal Palace.

Hurzeler gave the update during his media briefing on Friday before Brighton’s match at the Amex Stadium, with the news reported by allnigeriasoccer.com.

Yohanna has been unavailable since coming on as a substitute in Brighton’s home leg against Tromsø in the Conference League qualifying rounds. He was also ineligible for the club’s opening Conference League match against Kauno Zalgiris.

Azeez, who joined Brighton from Millwall on deadline day, has yet to make his debut for the club because of fitness problems.

The Super Eagles’ Unity Cup star did feature in a behind-closed-doors friendly during the international break as part of his rehabilitation from injury. However, his absence from Brighton’s squad for the Conference League was not linked to registration, as he had already been registered for the competition.

Hurzeler said both players require more time to adjust to the physical demands and intensity at Brighton. The manager is unwilling to accelerate their return before they are ready.

The Seagulls therefore remain without the two attacking options for the visit of Crystal Palace, with neither expected to be involved this weekend.