Club news

Hughton: We Must Be Motivated And Focused

By Alex Stedman • 17 February 2018

Brighton & Hove Albion manager Chris Hughton emphasised that his side must produce a motivated and focused performance in this afternoon’s Emirates FA Cup tie with Coventry City at the Amex Stadium. 

The Seagulls boss pointed to the fact that the Sky Bet League Two side would arrive on the south-coast this afternoon full of determination to cause an upset, and he wants his players to be wary of that.

He said, “We’re the home side and we’ll be favourites and that’s something we have to expect. 

“We’ve all been on the end of home matches where opposition come and give a good account of themselves – so one thing you have to do is to match Coventry City’s motivation and the players will be made aware of that. 

“The game with Lincoln City happened to quite a few people who are still with us here at the moment – it’s certainly something we’ll point to. We all know that three or four days later you’re onto other things but it’s not a nice experience and one you don’t want to have to go through too often."

Steve Sidwell and Jiri Skalak are the only two Seagulls players that are ruled out through injury for the game, and the Seagulls boss paid tribute to the club's medical staff for the excellent injury record so far this campaign.

“It’s been hugely important that we haven’t picked up many injuries and in some positions we’ve been able to have real consistency.

“A lot of praise has to go to the medical department because of that. They work the players really well and on some days the players have down days. The department assess them every day and have done an outstanding job this season. 

“But there is a luck element involved – that’s something that will always be part of the game. In matches bad tackles are something you can’t plan for – thankfully we’ve avoided those, which is great news.” 

Hughton played for Tottenham Hotspur in the 1987 FA Cup final against today’s opponents Coventry City at Wembley when the Sky Blues ran out 3-2 winners. 

It was a first ever domestic final for the Midlands club, whilst Spurs were appearing in their third final in seven seasons – and the manager reflected on the contest.

“My season had been a little bit different because I’d had an injury earlier in the campaign which meant I was out for a few months.

“But we were favourites going into the game and we scored very early on that day, so most people probably thought we’d go on and win that game.

“We came up against a very spirted Coventry City side and it was a massive occasion for them. Whenever I’m around anything to do with Coventry, that’s always the one that’s brought up – the 1987 Cup fFnal.

“I remember the game very well, I’d been in the side that had won the cup in 1981 and 1982 – so perhaps I was more experienced to deal with the disappointment – but for those who were playing in a final for the first time, it would have definitely been more difficult.”

Supporters can watch Chris Hughton's full press conference ahead of today's Emirates FA Cup tie on Seagulls TV - Albion fans can subscribe to the service by clicking here.