Brighton confirm Kaoru Mitoma out for Leeds, Georginio Rutter could return at Elland Road | OneFootball

Brighton will be without Kaoru Mitoma for Sunday’s trip to Leeds United. Head coach Fabian Hurzeler said, via Sussex World, “He [Mitoma] will be out. He will miss the next two games.”

Mitoma came off just before the hour in the 3-0 win over Wolves last weekend, appearing to suffer a hamstring issue. The Elland Road meeting is Leeds’ final home game of the season, with safety already secured.

“Regarding the World Cup I'm not sure yet. We will be in touch with the Japan federation. It is a big blow,” Hurzeler added.

Mitoma has three goals and one assist this season at club level, and he also scored in Japan’s 1-0 win over England at Wembley. His absence could open the door for Georginio Rutter, who has started only one Premier League game since early March, to feature out wide.

Hurzeler said his squad can absorb the setback. “We have a big squad and we have showed this season we can replace important players. Everyone in this team can have an impact.”

He urged patience over Mitoma’s recovery, saying, “We really have to be patient with this injury, we cannot give a clear schedule.” Diego Gomez is available after a knee injury and could start out wide, while full-back Mats Wieffer is in contention after an ankle issue. Stefanos Tzimas and Adam Webster remain sidelined.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk