Brighton boss Chris Hughton has backed midfielder Yves Bissouma to bounce back from his costly error at Liverpool as he adapts to English football.
The Mali international, a £15million summer signing from Lille, could make his first start at the Amex Stadium when Albion host Southampton in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday.
Bissouma was dispossessed in the build-up to the only goal in the 1-0 defeat to Jurgen Klopp’s Reds on Saturday while making his full debut.
Hughton has been satisfied with the 21-year-old’s early contribution for the Seagulls and expects him to develop gradually.
“It’s a learning curve, but we shouldn’t have got to that stage in the first place,” said Hughton speaking about Bissouma’s Anfield error on the club’s website.
“But overall I am pleased; he has trained very well, he’s young and still getting used to the way we play.
“He’s a talented player and he’ll improve in each game.”
Bissouma was the second most expensive recruit of a busy summer on the south coast.
The Seagulls’ record signing Alireza Jahanbakhsh, who cost a reported £17million from Dutch club AZ Alkmaar, is also expected to start against Saints following two substitute appearances.
Brighton midfielder Dale Stephens, an ever-present so far this season, is one of the players likely to make way.
He believes the club has increased competition for starting places.
“We’ve made some good signings and feel we’ve got a stronger squad than last season,” Stephens said.
“Everyone wants to play and Tuesday is another good game for us.
“They come quick and fast and whoever plays will be fighting to stay in this team come Saturday.”
Dutch forward Jurgen Locadia will also hope for his first start of the season,
but captain Bruno (hamstring) is out.
Defender Lewis Dunk (ankle), winger Jose Izquierdo (fitness) and forward Florin Andone (groin) are unlikely to be involved.
