Friday 2 March 2018 15:39, UK
Chris Hughton admits it may well be the worst time for his Brighton side to face Arsenal, despite the Gunners' poor recent form.
Brighton will welcome Arsenal to the south coast on Sunday afternoon, live on Sky Sports Premier League, in a match which could have a large bearing on his counterpart Arsene Wenger's future.
Arsenal head in to the match having lost twice to Manchester City in the last seven days, in both the Carabao Cup final and the Premier League.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Hughton conceded that the timing could be difficult for his side with Arsenal desperate for a response.
Hughton said: "They will want a reaction, but we need to make sure we can look after our own business.
"Most would say it's arguably the worst time to play them because they'll want a reaction but we've just got to make sure we get on with the job in hand and play to the levels we know we can play."
With just two wins in their last five domestic fixtures, pressure has once again mounted on Wenger. Hughton however believes the experience of the Frenchman will help him through, and the sympathy of his fellow managers is not required.
"Arsene has been around for so long and gone through so many periods, and you can't be a manager that has managed for as long as Arsene without having difficult periods.
"The majority of the time he has been there has been pluses, they've won things and won games so I don't think sympathy is the right word.
"There isn't anyone more experienced to handle any difficult times than Arsene. He will want to make sure he puts everything right and to get back to winning ways."
Hughton reported a fully fit squad ahead of the visit of the Gunners, confirming Jiri Skalak has resumed training.
He said: "Jiri, who got injured in an FA Cup tie at Middlesbrough, is now back in training so we're in very good shape."
