Brighton and Hove Albion are set to face West Ham United at Falmer Stadium today, December 7, 2025, in a Premier League match with implications for both ends of the table.
Brighton's manager, Fabian Hurzeler, has confirmed that Stefanos Tzimas is expected to be out for an extended period due to a knee injury. Hurzeler mentioned that Tzimas will likely be out for months, describing it as another long-term injury for the team this season. However, there is some positive news for Brighton fans, as midfielder Yasin Ayari may be available for the match against West Ham, and Kaoru Mitoma is nearing his return from a foot injury. Danny Welbeck is also aiming to come back and maintain his good record against West Ham. Other possible returnees are Ayari, Mitoma and Rutter. However, Mitoma, Rutter and Watson are in doubt, and Milner, March and Webster are still out.
West Ham will see the return of Lucas Paqueta to their starting lineup after serving a one-match suspension for receiving two yellow cards in quick succession during their recent loss to Liverpool. Manager Nuno Espirito Santo confirmed Paqueta's return, stating that the player has admitted his mistake and that it is in the past. However, Igor Julio will not be able to play, and Summerville is still in doubt. Fabianski and Scarles are also missing.
In terms of historical performance, Brighton has had the upper hand in Premier League matches against West Ham, with seven victories out of 16 encounters. West Ham's record against Brighton is their worst against any team they've faced more than twice in the competition, with only one win in 16 Premier League games.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 14:00 GMT. Brighton enters the game with a strong scoring record, having scored 31 goals in the Premier League this season, which is more than any other team. Meanwhile, West Ham managed a 1-1 draw against Manchester United in their last match, but they are currently on a three-game winless run in the Premier League and are near the relegation zone. Callum Wilson arrives with a good record against Brighton, with eight goal contributions in the Premier League.
