Albion look to maintain their push towards the play-off spots as they host Millwall at the Amex tomorrow evening.
No love lost in this Valentine’s fixture, as the Lions need the points the different reasons – in order to steer further clear of the drop-zone.
Although recent form would suggest a comfortable home win, the crazy nature of the Championship dictates anything can, and will happen.
Vital Quotes:
Brighton have the small matter of a 5th round FA Cup tie away at Liverpool next Sunday, but Poyet insists focus must remain solely on Millwall.
With some impressive recent results against the likes of Leicester, Leeds and Newcastle, the Uruguayan hopes his players can keep the same level of performance, whilst avoiding complacency.
Speaking to the official site, Poyet explains, ‘This is a tricky game knowing that we have Liverpool next. We have got to make sure that we focus on Millwall because we don’t want any surprises.
‘It’s up to me and the coaching staff to make sure that the players are focused and ready tomorrow night. We’ll make sure that we are there and fighting until the final whistle.
‘There are plenty of things to worry about with Millwall but saying that we need to pay attention to what we do.
‘If we defend well, keep the ball and control the game, and individuals do their job in an offensive way we have a great chance to win this football game. But Millwall have a few new players and they have been playing better away from home.’
Brighton & Hove Albion Team News:
Lewis Dunk returns having recovered from a virus that ruled him out on Saturday. Sparrow continues to serve his three match suspension.
Dicker, Elphick and Painter continue to recover from long-term injury.
Player to watch: Will Buckley
Despite his half-time withdrawal on Saturday, Buckley remains Albion’s key attacking threat. Known for his scintillating wing-play and clinical finishing, opposing defenders can’t switch off for one second when he’s around.
Millwall Team News:
Jackett has no fresh injury concerns after their 0-0 draw away at Derby.
Jimmy Abdou, Therry Racon and Tamika Mkandawire all remain injured.
Recently signed loanee Andy Keogh will be looking for a start, having already scored at the Amex for Leeds earlier in the season.
Player to watch: Darius Henderson
Signed from Sheffield United as a replacement for Steve Morison in the summer, former Albion loanee Henderson has notched an impressive 16 times (all comps) this season. Could be a handful with his aerial prowess.
Match Facts & Stats
A 1-1 draw was played out at the Den earlier in the season. Craig Noone put Albion ahead early in the second half, but Millwall equalised late on through a long-range strike from Jay Simpson.
The only other time Poyet has faced Millwall as Albion boss was in the 09/10 season. A frustrating 1-0 home defeat, Steve Morison scoring the only goal after an Adam Virgo error.
Albion vs Millwall fixtures have tended to be low-scoring affairs in recent years.
Ref Watch:
Mark Clattenburg is the man in the middle for this one.
