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Brighton’s head coach, Fabian Hurzeler, has introduced a tactical innovation by positioning Mats Wieffer as a right-back, a role he had not previously occupied in his career. This strategic adjustment, initially born out of necessity, has evolved into a potential long-term option for the Seagulls. As Brighton prepares to face Liverpool at the Amex, Wieffer’s adaptation to this role will be put to the test against Liverpool’s renowned attacking prowess on the flanks.
Fabian Hurzeler said: “I had a conversation with him about that. At the beginning, of course, he wasn’t really happy, but it’s about the team. It’s most important that every player understands that, no matter where he plays, he needs to help the team. And I think Mats does it in an impressive way. The more time he plays in this position, the more experience he collects, he’s getting more and more familiar with it. In my opinion, he has everything to be a really good right-back. He has a great physicality, he has good passing skill. He can be very dangerous when we attack because he’s fast. He has a good overview of the whole pitch and I think that he might be an option for us in the future in this position.”
Wieffer’s role at right-back is not conventional. During Brighton’s recent victory at Wolves, his positioning defied traditional expectations, as he played a pivotal role in winning the ball and forcing a penalty, leading to the Seagulls’ lead. This unconventional approach highlights Wieffer’s adaptability and football intelligence, which are crucial attributes for success in various roles on the pitch.
A potential challenge for Wieffer will be facing Liverpool’s wingers, known for their exceptional individual quality. Hurzeler acknowledged the threat posed by Liverpool’s Mo Salah, Cody Gakpo, and Luis Diaz, emphasizing the need for tactical awareness and defensive acumen to counteract their attacking capabilities.
Hurzeler said: “They have an unbelievable individual quality regarding their wingers. Not only (Mo) Salah, also (Cody) Gakpo, (Luis) Diaz.”
Cody Gakpo, in particular, has been a thorn in Brighton’s side, having scored in previous encounters by cutting in from the left. His ability to exploit defensive lapses presents a compelling subplot as he faces his compatriot Wieffer on the flank.
Brighton’s tactical shift with Wieffer as a right-back is a testament to the team’s adaptability and Hurzeler’s strategic acumen. As the Seagulls prepare to host Liverpool, this innovative approach promises an intriguing battle on the pitch, with Wieffer’s role under the spotlight.
