EPL: Brighton v Arsenal preview

Brighton v Arsenal preview

Jack Wilshere is a doubt for Arsenal's showdown with Brighton at the Amex Stadium.

The England midfielder missed Thursday's 3-0 home defeat to Manchester City with a minor ankle issue and could also sit out the game on the south coast.

The scrutiny on Arsene Wenger's future is increasing with his side having lost four of their past six Premier League games, and the Frenchman admits he has a job on to lift his players ahead of their trip to Brighton, which is live on Sky Sports Premier League.

"It has taken out confidence and brought big disappointment," he said. "In football, you lose confidence very quickly and you regain it very slowly and you always have to show strength not to give in.

"When that kind of disappointment comes it divides, it splits and our experience has to help us to stay together and focus on the next games."

Arsene Wenger felt that Manchester City took advantage of Arsenal's lack of confidence as they ran out convincing 3-0 winners at the Emirates.

Meanwhile, Chris Hughton admits it may well be the worst time for his Brighton side to face Arsenal, despite the Gunners' poor recent form.

"When you are playing a team of the stature of Arsenal, you've got to be wary of a reaction.

"It could arguably be the worst time to play them, so we have to make sure we play to the levels we know we can."

Brighton have no new injury concerns. The Seagulls have a nearly fully-fit squad for the visit of Wenger's side, with midfielder Jiri Skalak in contention having overcome an ankle injury.

Steve Sidwell (ankle) remains a long-term absentee but Hughton has everyone else available.

Arsenal have Nacho Monreal (back) and Alexandre Lacazette (knee) absent with Wenger likely to make changes with the Europa League trip to AC Milan looming.