We would appear to be lacking a bit of cover in midfield, however this is an ideal opportunity for fringe players to break through into the first team. Who plays centre-mid in the reserves?
Steve Coppell’s midfield options were reduced further today after Simon Rodger flew back to Sussex for surgery on his knee injury.
The Albion midfielder, who limped out of the 1-0 defeat against Middlesbrough after damaging a ligament in his left knee, will have a consultation on Friday, before going under the knife on Monday.
Rodger joins Charlie Oatway in the treatment room, who missed the Riverside clash with a persisting back injury.
In an interview for Seagulls World, Coppell explained that both his midfielders are likely to need surgery before they are back in action.
“Simon Rodger has got a tear in his cartilage so he’ll face surgery when he gets back to Brighton,” said the Albion boss.
“Charlie Oatway has got his back problem and sees a specialist next Wednesday. It’s a protruding disc that could cause problems, which is obviously something we don’t want to happen.
“The specialist will consult with Charlie. I have to say that surgery might be an option there.”
The absence of Rodger and Oatway will put considerable strain on Coppell’s North East squad ahead of Saturday’s game against Hartlepool, with Richard Carpenter and Robbie Pethick likely to form the central midfield partnership. However, Coppell is approaching the situation in a pragmatic fashion.
“Two midfielders more or less disappeared from the scene,” he admitted, “but as someone loses their place it’s an opportunity for someone else.
“Robbie Pethick came on last night and did a terrific job. Richard Carpenter has been frustrated by not playing in the last couple of games and he’ll be looking forward to getting a few more games under his belt.”
Meanwhile, striker Darius Henderson will link back up with the squad on Friday after missing the Carling Cup game at Reading's request.