Fabian Hurzeler singles out ‘special’ Chelsea star for praise ahead of Brighton clash

Fabian Hurzeler and Brighton are set to face their former striker Joao Pedro (Picture: Getty)

Fabian Hurzeler has backed Brighton to contain the threat of Joao Pedro when the former Brighton striker faces his old teammates on Saturday.

The Brazil international spent two reputation enhancing campaigns with the Seagulls before his move to Stamford Bridge in the summer.

Pedro made an instant impression under Enzo Maresca, signing in time to play a prominent role in the Blues’ triumphant Club World Cup campaign.

The 24-year-old has firmly established himself as Chelsea’s first choice striker, in part down to the injury sustained by Liam Delap, and will lead the line against his old club tomorrow.

Hurzeler admits his team will face a tough challenge to try and quell the influence of their former star but is confident his defenders areup to the task.

‘Joao was a special player for us and it’s not easy to replace him one-to-one but we did it as team and we did it quite well,’ said the Brighton boss.

‘There’s always a process, new players have to step in, new young players with big potential have to step in.

Joao Pedro joined Chelsea in a £60m deal from Brighton (Picture: Getty)

‘They have to prove themselves every weekend that they are ready for that but they need time.

‘Second thing, of course, Joao is a special player. He proved it already at Chelsea in the first [few] games.

‘He played well. He scored goals. He’s very good in position. He is a game changer for them. We have to defend as a team, as a unit. I’m sure we are capable of doing that.’

It remains to be seen whether or not, meanwhile, Cole Palmer will be fit enough to feature after he was withdrawn as a precaution during the early stages of last weekend’s defeat against Manchester United.

‘First of all we can’t influence if he’s playing or not,’ the Brighton boss added when asked about the prospect of facing a Palmer-less Chelsea. ‘It’s important to focus on our game and focus on how we want to play.

‘If he’s starting, he’s a game changer for them [Chelsea]. He is one of the best Premier League players. He’s got a special left foot. He can decide a game in one action.

‘It’s about defending as team, as a unit, but it’s not about only defending, it’s also about playing our style of play. If you go there trying only to defend you won’t have a chance.’

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