Brighton & Hove Albion host Sunderland on Saturday afternoon, looking to break a frustrating “December curse.”
Fabian Hürzeler’s side have not won a Premier League game in this month for nine consecutive attempts. Consequently, they will be desperate to secure three points before Christmas. The Seagulls have struggled for consistency at the Amex Stadium this season. They have won only two of their eight home league games so far.
However, they face a Sunderland side that they beat in their last competitive meeting at this venue. Hürzeler will demand a reaction following the defeat to Liverpool as he looks to steer his team back into the top half of the table.
Brighton team news
Fabian Hürzeler has been dealt a blow with key midfielder Carlos Baleba departing for the Africa Cup of Nations. Therefore, James Milner is expected to step into the midfield alongside Jack Hinshelwood. In defence, Adam Webster remains sidelined with an injury, so Jan Paul van Hecke will partner Lewis Dunk.
Up front, Danny Welbeck is set to lead the line against the club where he spent a successful loan spell in 2010-11. Interestingly, he has failed to score or assist in nine previous Premier League games against the Black Cats. He will be supported by Georginio Rutter and Brajan Gruda, with Yankuba Minteh providing pace on the flank.
Brighton predicted Lineup
Brighton predicted XI: Verbruggen; Wieffer, van Hecke, Dunk, Kadıoğlu; Milner, Hinshelwood; Minteh, Rutter, Gomez; Welbeck
When will the match kick off?
The Premier League fixture takes place at the American Express Stadium on Saturday, 20 December 2025. Kick-off is scheduled for 3:00 pm GMT.
How to watch Brighton vs Sunderland?
This match will not be broadcast live in the UK due to the Saturday 15:00 blackout rule. Highlights will be available on BBC’s Match of the Day.
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