Joao Pedro is a key player for Brighton, who need a win in their own right against Ipswich at Portman Road on Thursday.
The Seagulls are eight games without a win in the Premier League and have dropped to 11th after an excellent start under Fabian Hurzeler. After scoring a free goal earlier in the season, Brighton they now seem much less fluid, scoring just seven goals in their last six games. However, they remain competitive with commendable draws Arsenal AND Aston Villa in the last two.
However, the Seagulls appear to be in need of attacking inspiration, particularly with one of their key strikers scoring a goal for his side against Arsenal, which is an injury concern.
Joao Pedro doubts Brighton’s trip to Ipswich
Joao Pedro will undoubtedly be a game-changer for Brighton. He finished confidently from the penalty spot against Arsenal, and had previously provided two assists in a 2-2 draw with Villa. With five goals and five assists in just 12 league appearances, the Brazilian is now gaining recognition from other clubs.
However, the 23-year-old may not play for Brighton next time out, with Hurzeler confirming he missed the 4-0 scoreline FA Cup to win Norwich with ankle problem.
“We have to find out today,” Hurzeler said on Tuesday when asked about Pedro’s condition. “He trains with the team and then we can decide whether we will take the risk by playing with him [against Ipswich]. The most important thing is how the player feels. We won’t do anything stupid, we have to wait until the training session is over.
“He hasn’t been able to get into his rhythm, but I talked to him for a long time yesterday and he’s in a comfortable place. He likes it here and is happy with his performances.
“Of course he would like to be on the pitch in every match, but sometimes the body doesn’t want the same thing, so you have to adapt. We cannot forget that he is still a very young player.
“That’s why I’m happy with him. I’m sure he will help us on the pitch for the rest of the season.
Hurzeler’s comments suggest that Pedro’s injury is not serious, although Brighton will be wary of aggravating any problems for a player who has previously struggled with an ankle. two months are missing from the 2022/23 season while at Watford.
If Pedro is unavailable, Brighton will turn to the likes of Danny Welbeck – the Seagulls’ top scorer with six goals – as well as Kaoru Mitoma and Georginio Rutter for inspiration in the final third.
