Lewis Dunk and Evan Ferguson injury update ahead of Bournemouth and Chelsea game

The Albion will return to action just three days after their disappointing 3-2 defeat at home to AEK Athens in their first-ever Europa League game.

Dunk and Evan Ferguson were both unavailable for Thursday’s defeat to the Greek champions. The Brighton skipper picked up a muscular injury in the 3-1 win over United, while Ferguson was ruled out on the day of the game due to illness.

Speaking ahead of the Bournemouth clash, De Zerbi said he was unsure of the severity of his skipper’s injury and did not want to take any risks with the centre-back.

However, the Seagulls’ boss was more optimistic about Ferguson’s chances of playing.

De Zerbi said: “We can’t take risk especially in this part of the season. For Evan Ferguson, there is a chance he can play.”

Despite the poor start to their European campaign, Albion have been flying high in the Premier League, winning four of their first five league games.

Their last domestic outing saw them comfortably sweep aside Manchester United at Old Trafford, moving them up to fifth in the table.

HAVE YOU READ THIS?

Brighton star reveals why Roberto De Zerbi's side struggled against AEK Athens

Roberto De Zerbi issues worrying Lewis Dunk fitness update ahead of Bournemouth

Penalty ace Joao Pedro makes painful West Ham comparison after Europa League loss to AEK Athens

Their opponents on Sunday have yet to win in the league this season under new boss Andoni Iraola.

Having stayed up against the odds under Gary O'Neil in the prior campaign, the Cherries spent more than £110m on new players such as Tyler Adams and Justin Kluivert, but have so far picked up two draws and three defeats this term.

Despite the winless run, Iraola will have been pleased with parts of his sides battling display against Chelsea last Sunday, in which they picked up a point in a 0-0 draw.

Brighton face Bournemouth at 2pm on Sunday at the Vitality Stadium.