Azeez’s debut for Brighton still uncertain

Brighton and Hove Albion manager, Fabian Hürzeler, is uncertain if new signing Femi Azeez will make his debut today for the Seagulls in the Premier League clash with Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.

The Nigeria international joined the Seagulls before the close of the summer transfer window following an impressive spell with Millwall in the Championship.

During the 2025/26 season, Azeez recorded 11 goals with eight assists in 37 appearances for Brighton.

Following his summer move to Brighton, Azeez is yet to make his debut for the Seagulls due to fitness issues, which also forced him to miss Nigeria’s two 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying matches against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau, as well as the friendly against Russia.

However, the former Millwall star stepped up his recovery during the international break, featuring for Brighton in a behind-closed-doors friendly as he continued his push to regain full fitness.

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Despite making his comeback, Hürzeler remains uncertain about Azeez’s availability for the Sunderland clash after the 25-year-old reportedly suffered some minor issues during the friendly.

Speaking at a press conference, Hürzeler revealed that Azeez is expected to undergo a late fitness test to determine his availability for the matchday six Premier League fixture.

Recall that Azeez scored 11 goals and provided seven assists for Millwall as they reached the Championship play-off semi-finals, earning a place in the PFA Championship Team of the Season before securing a move worth more than £15 million to Brighton.