Sport nationMATT O’RILEY’S BRIGHTON STRUGGLES CONTINUE AS INJURY WOES PERSIST
Former Celtic midfielder Matt O’Riley’s difficult start to life at Brighton and Hove Albion has shown no signs of abating, with the Danish player currently sidelined through injury. O’Riley made a £20 million switch to the south coast last summer, but his time at the club has been marred by fitness issues and a lack of form.
The 23-year-old was forced off just six minutes into his Brighton debut and has since made just 14 appearances for the club, scoring one goal and providing a single assist. His absence from the squad for Brighton’s recent FA Cup fifth-round win over Newcastle United has only added to the concerns surrounding his fitness.
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler recently shed some light on O’Riley’s struggles, revealing that the player is still recovering from a knee issue. “Matt O’Riley is over his illness,” Hurzeler explained. “But we have to take care of his knee issue. We have to see if he can train.”
O’Riley’s difficulties at Brighton are a far cry from his impressive form at Celtic last season. The midfielder scored 19 goals and provided 18 assists in 49 appearances, earning him the club’s Player of the Year and Players’ Player of the Year awards.
Brighton has established itself as a hub for emerging talent in recent years, but O’Riley’s struggles to adapt to his new surroundings have been a surprise. The player’s injury woes have undoubtedly played a significant role in his slow start, but it remains to be seen when he will be able to return to full fitness and make a meaningful impact at the club.
As O’Riley continues his rehabilitation, Brighton fans will be eagerly awaiting his return to the pitch. The midfielder’s quality is undeniable, and his presence could be a significant boost to the team’s chances of success in the second half of the season.
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Amina Umar