Fabian Hurzeler explains Brighton decision to skip Tromso training before Conference League tie | OneFootball

Fabian Hurzeler has set out why Albion declined to train on Tromso’s artificial surface before their Conference League play-off first leg, seeking to protect players during a busy period of matches.

According to TheArgus.co.uk, Brighton turned down a Wednesday evening session at the Romssa Arena, 24 hours before the tie, instead visiting on arrival in Norway to inspect the pitch.

Local observers were surprised they did not train. After the match, which finished 0-0, they remarked Albion looked comfortable on the surface.

Hurzeler said the club did not want players reacting to an artificial pitch or waking up the next day with discomfort. He added that several in the squad have minor issues on such surfaces, so they chose to protect them.

Lewis Dunk did not feature, and it was unclear whether that was linked to the pitch. Jack Hinshelwood, a regular starter in recent months, began on the bench and came on late.

The Seagulls are back on home turf on Friday. Hurzeler will assess his squad and speak to the media from midday.

Source: TheArgus.co.uk

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