Kaoru Mitoma Injury Update: Brighton Hopeful It’s Not Serious
Kauro Mitoma was forced to leave the field during Brighton’s draw with Crystal Palace on Thursday night, and Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi is hoping it’s not a serious injury.
The 26-year-old was substituted after 83 minutes at Selhurst Park, shortly after Danny Welbeck scored the equalizer in the 1-1 game.
Mitoma had gone down with an unsuccessful penalty claim just before his injury, and it is believed that he may have suffered an ankle injury. He was seen leaving the stadium in a protective boot after the match.
De Zerbi couldn’t confirm the severity of the injury immediately after the game, but he will wait for test results and observe Mitoma’s reaction in the coming days.
“With Mitoma, I hope it won’t be a major injury for him and for us,” said De Zerbi. “But I don’t know. We will see in the next few days.”
Brighton’s Performance and Young Players
In regards to the game, De Zerbi told Sky Sports, “I think we played differently in the second half, with more energy and creativity in our attacks.”
“We conceded another poor goal, and we need to improve and avoid losing the ball in that manner. We have to accept the club’s policy of playing with many young players.”
“With young players, you have to give them time to make mistakes,” he added.
Crystal Palace remains in 15th place in the Premier League after the draw. When asked if he felt under pressure, Eagles boss Roy Hodgson seemed confused.
“I don’t understand – feel the pressure in what respect?” Hodgson asked. “I suppose that’s football. If there is a suggestion that every time a team slides down the table a manager should feel under pressure, then I should feel under pressure.”
“But I don’t believe the players could be doing much better than they’re doing at the moment. So if that is pressure, I don’t feel it at all.”
Brighton will face Spurs at home on Thursday, December 28, but they will be without Ansu Fati, Julio Enciso, Joel Veltman, Pervis Estupinan, Adam Webster, Tariq Lamptey, and Solly March.
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