Brighton confirm Kaoru Mitoma out of Leeds trip as Georginio Rutter door opens | OneFootball

Brighton and Hove Albion will be without Kaoru Mitoma at Elland Road on Sunday, Fabian Hurzeler has confirmed. It is Leeds United’s final home game, with safety secured.

"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." He was speaking to Sussex World.

Mitoma was forced off just before the hour in last weekend’s 3-0 home win over Wolves, appearing to suffer a hamstring problem.

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

His absence could open the door for Georginio Rutter to feature out wide. The forward has started only one Premier League match since early March and could be used against the club he left for Brighton in a £40 million move almost two years ago.

"It's a blow but an opportunity."

Diego Gomez, who scored twice in a 3-0 win over Leeds in October, is available after a knee issue and could start wide. Full-back Mats Wieffer is in contention following an ankle problem, while Stefanos Tzimas and Adam Webster remain sidelined.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk