Fulham vs. Brighton Hove Albion Preview: Three questions with Brighton But Only At Home

Cottagers Confidential: You're now in first place, and I think most reasonable pundits would say that you and Newcastle are going to finish 1 and 2 in some order. Do you think the team uses this transfer window to start preparing for the premier league, do you stand pat, or do you make moves to assure your position?

Brighton But Only At Home: I think what we’ll do is add another striker. We only have three really, our fourth choice, Elvis Manu, has been told he can go on a free in January. It will likely be a “number 10” type player. There have been rumours about taking Johnny Russell from Derby and I know we were quite close to a deal for him in the summer. I wouldn’t tinker with the rest of the team. We’ve got where we are with team spirit and togetherness so adding a big name seems unlikely.

CC: It wouldn't be shocking to see any of the teams in the top 10 make the playoffs. Currently Fulham and Derby have the two best goal differentials, but are just outside the playoff spots. Who are your picks to finish 3-6?

BBOAH: It feels weird, as a Brighton fan, to be agreeing that we’ll probably stay in the top two. We could still blow it but it’s looking more unlikely. So assuming us and Newcastle do go up then I think 3-6 is very much up for grabs. Reading should hold on and Sheffield Wednesday looked decent at Newcastle. I can’t see Leeds holding on, Celllno will do something mad and Huddersfield are punching above their weight. I’d expect Derby and one of Fulham or Villa to replace those two.

CC: The last game between these two sides was a pretty even affair, what kind of match are you expecting this time?

BBOAH: I thought you were better than us for most of the game and Cairney was outstanding. However, you still look weak at the back. Maybe a high scoring draw – say 2-2?

CC: Any lineup changes you are expecting this time?

BBOAH: There will be some game management involved with a hectic festive schedule. Solly March is fit again and it would be between him and Jamie Murphy for one of the wide positions. I would expect Norwood to be in centre midfield against Fulham though I expect him to have been rested against Cardiff. We’ll definitely play Murray and Baldock up front if they’re fit.

I’m looking forward to the game. We’ve sold out and I’ve managed to get tickets in the away bit with my mate and our sons. I’ll stick with that 2-2 prediction.