EPL 2017/18: Brighton & Hove Albion 0-2 Manchester City, 5 talking points

#2 Brighton will struggle without pace

Brighton’s 25-man squad has an average of 26

The Premier League is the quickest and most physical league in the world, and it requires peak levels of fitness. Brighton & Hove Albion’s industrious style of play won’t cut it in the Premier League without adaptation.

Chris Hughton’s men don’t particularly excel in any physical trait, not pace, nor strength or height. In order to make them a threat, Brighton must adopt an identity that they can work on throughout the season. The Brighton squad is already one of the oldest in the Premier League, with a significant share of the team being above the age of 29.

Izzy Brown bucks that trend as the 20-year old represents a breath of fresh air in the Brighton set up. Unfortunately, the Chelsea loanee limped off in the 24th minute with what seemed like a hamstring injury. The youngster is skillful, agile and technically sound and he’s Brighton’s only hope of survival.