Albion boast an unbeaten record in 2012, and will look to maintain that as they travel to Elland Road on Saturday.
Leeds caretaker boss Neil Redfearn takes charge once again after a 3-0 triumph at Bristol City last weekend.
Both teams sit just 2 points outside the play-offs – this crunch match could prove pivotal for their respective promotion hopes.
Vital Quotes:
Whilst Brighton were struggling to name 5 subs just a matter of weeks ago, a recent raft of returning players have left Gus Poyet with some serious decisions to make regarding his Yorkshire-bound squad.
Speaking to the official site, Poyet admitted, “We have problems now. We had 20 outfield players training yesterday and we only need 14 for the game so I have decisions to make, but I like that.
“Six players will miss out but they are all very important for this football club still. In terms of competition the players on the pitch have got to perform. If not, they can be out of the squad very quickly. That is good for the team though.”
Leeds United Team News:
Redfearn has a near-full squad to choose from, with no new injury worries.
Player to watch: Robert Snodgrass
Undoubtedly their key man, having scored 11 goals already this term, including 3 in his last 4 league outings. Predominantly right-sided winger loves to cut inside onto his favoured left foot.
Brighton & Hove Albion Team News:
Matt Sparrow starts a 3 match suspension after his dismissal at home to Leicester. Gary Dicker, Marcos Painter & Tommy Elphick continue to recover from long-term injuries.
Player to watch: Will Buckley
Brighton’s form player and last-gasp goal-getter, Buckley can seemingly do no wrong at present – 3 goals in 3 games and an unerring habit for late winners.
Match Facts & Stats
2 previous meetings of note:
Poyet’s first home league game in charge of Albion ended in a 3-0 home defeat against Leeds. Brighton had gotten off to a fine start under the Uruguayan’s reign, with 2 wins from 2, but were soon brought back down to earth by an in-form Leeds side – Snodgrass among the goals.
In the current season’s reverse fixture at the Amex, an enthralling 3-3 draw was played out in-front of the Sky cameras. Leeds took a 2-0 lead into half-time, however Albion scored 3 second half goals to nearly pull off a remarkable come-back. McCormack grabbed an injury time equaliser to ensure they shared the spoils.
