Wolves: Brighton & Hove Albion face an anxious wait on the fitness of their top scorer Danny Welbeck ahead of their Premier League clash against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday, October 28, 2024. The 33-year-old striker, who has been in stellar form with five goals in eight games, is battling a lower back injury sustained in last week’s 1-0 win over Newcastle United.

Welbeck was stretchered off in the 81st minute after a painful collision with Newcastle’s Fabian Schar, which left him unable to continue. Brighton’s head coach, Fabian Hurzeler, confirmed in his press conference that a late decision will be made on the striker’s availability.

“It’s still early to say if he can play or not,” Hurzeler explained. “He got hit on his nerve, which caused temporary numbness in his leg. He’s in pain and has been undergoing intense treatment with our physios.”

The injury occurred during an aerial duel, and although Welbeck required oxygen and was taken to Newcastle Royal Infirmary for checks, he was able to rejoin his teammates for the flight home. Brighton’s medical staff are working around the clock in hopes of getting him fit in time for the Wolves encounter.

Brighton’s Injury Woes Continue

In addition to Welbeck, Brighton have several injury concerns ahead of the Wolves fixture. Joao Pedro remains sidelined with an ankle injury, and Evan Ferguson, who made his first Premier League start of the season against Newcastle, is still not at full fitness after undergoing ankle surgery in April. Winger Yankuba Minteh is also doubtful after picking up a muscle injury while on international duty with Gambia, though Simon Adingra is back in contention after missing the last three matches.

What’s at Stake?

Brighton, currently fifth in the Premier League table, have a golden opportunity to leapfrog Arsenal if they secure a win against Wolves, who sit at the bottom of the league. The Seagulls will be eager to secure all three points before a crucial doubleheader against Liverpool next week, with the two sides facing off in the Carabao Cup and Premier League.

For Wolves, the game represents a must-win scenario as they look to climb out of the relegation zone. However, with Brighton’s attacking firepower and solid home form, Gary O’Neil’s side will need to be at their best to secure a positive result.