From the Guardian · Harry Paterson · · 1m 20s
Brighton Contenders for Champions League
Brighton lead Premier League in goals, clean sheets and expected goals despite summer upheaval.
In brief
Brighton lead Premier League in goals, clean sheets and expected goals despite summer upheaval. Brighton are genuine Champions League contenders with 16 league goals, +11 goal difference, and a 3-0 win over Arsenal. Originally reported by the Guardian.
Brighton's recent form
Brighton beat Arsenal 3-0 in their last league match with 16 league goals and +11 goal difference.
“Brighton beat Arsenal 3-0 in their last league match”
Summer player losses
Brighton sold 20 players including Danny Welbeck to Chelsea for £5m and Carlos Baleba to Manchester United for £70m.
“Brighton spent the summer losing some of their best players”
Pascal Gross impact
Pascal Gross scored three goals and set up three more with 15 chances created this season.
“Pascal Gross scored three goals and set up three more”
Team resilience
Brighton have nine different scorers and 56 high turnovers despite summer upheaval.
“Brighton have nine different scorers in the Premier League this season”
Hürzeler's tactics
Hürzeler demands intensity with 7.4 passes allowed per defensive action and 56 high turnovers.
“Brighton are pressing as intently as ever”
Injury challenges
Brighton face a tough run of fixtures including Liverpool and Manchester City away this month.
“A tough run of fixtures lies in wait”
Gross's role
Gross is 35 with 59.7km covered and 15 chances created this season.
“Gross is 35 with 59.7km covered”
Team adaptation
Brighton players stepped into roles without major disruptions.
“Maxim De Cuyper has covered for Mitoma at left wing”
Champions League prospects
Brighton lead Premier League in goals, clean sheets and expected goals with 16 goals.
“Brighton lead the league in goals scored”
Challenges ahead
Gross's age and injury list threaten Brighton's Champions League qualification.
“Gross is 35; asking a player his age to sustain this level of output”
The takeaway
Brighton are genuine Champions League contenders with 16 league goals, +11 goal difference, and a 3-0 win over Arsenal.
