Albion’s wing players might be crucial in dismantling a resilient Everton team when they meet at the Amex stadium.
According to Sky Sports pundit Alan Smith, Kaoru Mitoma and Yankuba Minteh are expected to be highly influential when facing the Toffees, a team that has only allowed ten goals when playing away this season.
The squad managed by David Moyes has achieved five shutouts in their past six matches on the road, including a recent 1-0 victory over a strong Aston Villa side.
The team has maintained an unblemished defensive record for 315 consecutive minutes while playing away from home.
Smith, previously a forward for Arsenal and England, shared with The Argus: “Everton has achieved some impressive outcomes during their road trips.
“I believe that when confronting such a defensive structure, the players on the flanks are consistently vital, and Brighton possesses exceptionally skilled wide players in Mitoma and Minteh.
“It would be intriguing to see if both participate and maintain significant width on the field to try and spread Everton’s defense.
“Therefore, I would consider that a crucial element of their strategy.”
Mitoma played a central role in generating many of Albion’s significant attacking plays during their 2-1 loss to Fulham, with Minteh entering the game as a late substitute.
Everton has allowed opponents to score nine times from cross deliveries, which is the highest count in the Premier League.
Albion is likely to control much of the possession, considering Everton’s average of 38.7% ball retention in away matches represents the lowest percentage in the Premier League for such a statistic.
Smith was broadcasting for Sky when Albion recently tied with Bournemouth and noted the impact of substitute Charalampos Kostoulas, who proceeded to net an impressive tying goal.
He stated: “Kostoulas made an impression on me, especially during the Bournemouth match with that bicycle kick right at the conclusion.
“He is an eighteen-year-old prodigy, and securing a point was fantastic news for both him and his squad. Currently, he stands out as a promising player.
“Danny Welbeck continues to perform exceptionally and score goals, which is excellent for him, as he experiences a late flourishing period in his professional journey.”
Everton will see the return of defender Michael Keane after his suspension, and Jarrad Branthwaite is back from his injury.
