Hughton delighted with Izquierdo return

Brighton have struggled for league form so far this campaign, only managing one win, an impressive home display against Manchester United. And so manager Chris Hughton hopes that the return to fitness of midfielder Izquierdo can provide a much needed spark for the 'Seagulls' in their upcoming fixture at home to West Ham this weekend. 

Speaking to the media ahead of the clash, Hughton said of Izquierdo's return: "It's good to have him back, he's missed all of pre-season but played 45 minutes of an under-23 game last week. He's a player that's given us goals last season and it's very, very welcome to have him back." 

Since joining Brighton in 2017, Izquierdo has five goals and three assists in 33 League appearances, helping the club to retain their Premier League status towards the end of last season. And surely the 'Seagulls' will be glad for the sight of Izquierdo ahead of their match with West Ham this weekend, as the Colombian scored in both games against 'The Irons' last season, as Brighton completed the double over the east London side. 

Hughton also spoke about the recent upturn in fortunes of opponents West Ham, stating: "West Ham have hit form, and that's no surprise, it was only going to be a matter of time." After a faltering start to the season, in which they suffered four consecutive defeats at the beginning of the campaign, West Ham have hit promising form, beating Manchester United 3-1 at the London Stadium in their last Premier League outing. 

Brighton boss Hughton is expecting a tough contest this weekend against Manuel Pellegrini's rejuvenated West Ham, telling the media: ""We do know though what we have to do to get results, against any team really, and we have to get back to those types of levels. What we will have to get back to being is having those moments to be clinical again. We expect nothing less than a really tough game against West Ham, but if we can get back to good form it gives us a chance."