Brighton confirm Kaoru Mitoma out for Leeds trip as Georginio Rutter could return | OneFootball

Brighton will travel to Elland Road on Sunday without Kaoru Mitoma, with his absence potentially opening the door for Georginio Rutter to return out wide.

“He [Mitoma] will be out. He will miss the next two games. Regarding the World Cup I'm not sure yet. We will be in touch with the Japan federation. It is a big blow,” the Brighton boss said, speaking to Sussex World.

Mitoma was forced off just before the hour in Brighton's 3-0 home win over Wolves, appearing to suffer a hamstring problem after on-pitch treatment before limping down the tunnel.

The 28-year-old has three goals and one assist at club level this season and remains a major threat when fit. He also scored for Japan in a 1-0 win over England at Wembley alongside Leeds midfielder Ao Tanaka.

His absence could see Rutter involved on the flank. The forward has only one Premier League start since early March and could be used against the club he left for Brighton in a £40m deal almost two years ago.

Diego Gomez is another option out wide after recovering from a knee problem, having scored twice in the 3-0 win over Leeds in October. Full-back Mats Wieffer is in contention after an ankle issue, while Stefanos Tzimas and Adam Webster remain out.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk