The tactical dexterity Brighton manager Graham Potter showed during his side’s win over Burnley at the Premier League’s opening weekend will be recalled when the Seagulls host newly marketed Watford on Saturday afternoon.
Brighton dragged less than two minutes into their 2021/22 campaign, but a change in formation – and a bit of a bad Burnley finish (a passion that Brighton knows all too well) – turned the tide and gave Potter’s side a 2-1 victory.
Here’s the lineup Potter can distribute – and actually change in the middle of the game – in an attempt to make two to two to start his 2020/21 Premier League campaign.
Robert Sanchez (left) – with his new squad number – greeted warmly by returning Shane Duffy / Visionhaus / Getty Images
Robert Sanchez (GK) – Still on top of the scales after being selected by Spain for Euro 2020 – which ensured that Brighton had more players in Spain’s European Championship than Real Madrid – Sanchez is now Brighton’s undisputed number one.
Shane Duffy (CB) – After a year away from the south coast with Celtic, in Ben White’s absence, Duffy returns to his familiar position with Lewis Dunk.
Lewis Dunk (CB) – Club captain, icon and defensive lynchpin, Dunk can add a goal scorer to the list when he – alarmingly – ended the previous campaign with a penalty that was lower than just Danny Welbeck in the Brighton squad.
Adam Webster (CB) – Another staple in the back line, expect Webster to start week in, week out this season.
Yves Bissouma (left) quickly emphasized his importance for Brighton against Burnley and why several sides may be interested in his services / Nathan Stirk / Getty Images
Pascal Groß (RWB) – Because damage to the likes of Joel Veltman and Tariq Lamptey limits Potter’s options, Groß can be tasked with sprinkling the game with his usual creativity from an unknown broad role.
Jakub Moder (CM) – Few replacements gave as much immediate impact as Mother last weekend and got an assist within seconds of coming on the field. His cameo has certainly given him a starting place.
Yves Bissouma (CM) – The crown jewel in the heart of this Brighton page will always be included in every possible start -XI until he leaves the club – which may be pretty soon …
Enock Mwepu (CM) – Brighton’s signing of the summer may have had his Premier League debut curtailed last weekend, but he can take comfort in a likely opportunity to earn redemption ahead of his home draw for the first time on Saturday.
Solly March (LWB) – March’s departure from the wingback role he was so often tied to last term did not last even 90 minutes of the Premier League’s opening weekend, and he may well find himself back there against Watford.
Neal Maupay finished as Brighton’s top scorer last semester despite failing to reach double digits – he already has one this campaign / James Gill – Danehouse / Getty Images
Neal Maupay (ST) – Healthy from a birthday goal, Maupay will no doubt have the chance to add their Premier League squad next weekend.
Leandro Trossard (ST) – The dynamic striker is the key to how Brighton play and can be expected to make a difference on Saturday.
