Brighton & Hove Albion manager Fabian Hurzeler faced the media ahead of Sunday's Premier League clash with Leeds United at Elland Road (kick-off 3:00 PM BST), and there was no shortage of talking points—from injury setbacks to squad depth and Champions League dreams.

First, the tough news: Japanese winger Kaoru Mitoma will miss the final two league matches after suffering a hamstring injury in the recent defeat to Wolves. Hurzeler called it a "big blow" but quickly pointed to Brighton's resilience. "We've shown all season that we can replace important players," he said. The club is in contact with the Japanese Football Association regarding Mitoma's potential participation in the World Cup, with a joint decision to come.

But Hurzeler isn't dwelling on the negative. "We see it as a chance, a challenge, an opportunity to stick together as a team, to face adversity and show the right reaction," he explained. "It's about togetherness and knowing everyone in this squad can have an impact."

On the injury front, there's good news: Diego Gomez is fit and available for selection, while midfielder Mats Wieffer could also feature—though the club will monitor his progress over the next few days.

When asked about his team's identity, Hurzeler was clear: "Intensity. That's what we want on the pitch every time. We want to start well, get the fans behind us, and dominate the opponent. But it's not always possible—the other team wants the same thing."

And what about the excitement of a potential Champions League spot? Hurzeler kept his focus on the immediate challenge. "The biggest excitement for me is going to a special stadium with a special atmosphere, facing a really strong opponent, and preparing my team the best I can."

Finally, the boss had high praise for veteran forward Danny Welbeck, who has been included in Thomas Tuchel's 55-man provisional England squad. "He's been nominated because he deserves it. He works incredibly hard, and I'm very pleased for him. Hopefully, he can make the final squad."