Brighton & Hove Albion manager Fabian Hurzeler has set the tone for the final stretch of the Premier League season, emphasizing a cup-final mentality as his squad prepares for a crucial clash with Burnley this Saturday. Speaking ahead of the trip to Turf Moor, Hurzeler addressed key squad updates and the collective mindset needed for the run-in.
The Seagulls will be without their manager and captain Lewis Dunk for the next few games due to suspension, but Hurzeler expressed full confidence in the team's depth and leadership. "My assistant team have stepped in before and done an incredible job," he stated. "We have a lot of other leaders who can solve that gap on and off the pitch, and I'm quite confident the whole team is strong enough to handle this well."
On the injury front, the news is largely positive. Jack Hinshelwood is fully fit despite withdrawing from the recent England Under-21 camp, and veteran forward Danny Welbeck is reportedly feeling "very relaxed, very focused and very sharp" after the international break. The 35-year-old appears to be in a great place physically and mentally for the season's final push.
There was also an encouraging update on defender Adam Webster, who is progressing well in his recovery from a serious ACL injury sustained in pre-season. Hurzeler highlighted the importance of a supportive environment during long-term rehabilitation, noting, "I'm a big believer that when you have a positive mind, recovery goes much better." Webster is currently working alongside teammate Stefanos Tzimas.
Hurzeler revealed that the squad used the recent break to "reflect, analyse and switch off" before refocusing with renewed intensity. He stressed that every match from here on out must be treated with utmost importance. "We need to have that attitude," he asserted. "We have to play each game like it is the final game of the season."
In a show of club-wide collaboration, Brighton women's team manager Dario Vidosic has been assisting with the men's training sessions, with Hurzeler praising his immediate impact and valuable insights. As the season reaches its climax, this unified approach and resilient mindset will be vital for Brighton's ambitions.