Brighton & Hove Albion defender Luka Vuskovic has called for quicker starts from his side after they came from behind to draw 1-1 with Leeds United on Saturday. The club's record summer signing scored his first goal for the Seagulls but insisted the performance was not good enough in the early stages.
Vuskovic spoke to BBC Radio Sussex after the match, which was reported by the BBC this week. Brighton currently sit 10th in the Premier League table with four points from their opening three games. Their record shows one win, one draw, and one loss, with a goal difference of plus three after scoring eight and conceding five.
What did Vuskovic say about the performance?
Luka Vuskovic was clear in his assessment of the Leeds match. "We need to work better because we didn't start like we know how to," the Croatian defender stated. "The second half was a lot better." He emphasized that the team's never-say-die attitude, while positive, should not be a requirement in every match. "We never give up but that is the second part and we need to start from the first part and be at it and rely on ourselves from the first second," Vuskovic added.
The 19-year-old, who joined from Tottenham in a club-record deal, said the dressing room conversations would focus on solutions. He confirmed the team would analyze the issues and be better prepared for their next fixture. Brighton's recent form reads draw, loss, win from their last three outings, leaving them five points behind early leaders Manchester City in the title race.
How does the squad look ahead of the next game?
Roberto De Zerbi's side faces a quick turnaround before traveling to face Coventry City on September 13th. The Sky Blues are currently 20th in the table, making it a significant opportunity for Brighton to build momentum. However, the Seagulls will have to navigate their next match without several key players.
The club's injuries page lists a substantial absentee list. Striker Evan Ferguson remains sidelined, alongside winger Kaoru Mitoma and midfielder Mats Wieffer. Full-back Jack Hinshelwood and forward Femi Azeez are also unavailable, with young striker Stefanos Tzimas completing the current treatment room group. This presents a challenge for squad rotation and tactical planning.
Where does this result leave Brighton in the table?
The single point from the Leeds encounter means Brighton occupies the middle of the Premier League pack early in the season. Their position of 10th reflects a mixed start, but the underlying numbers show an attack capable of scoring goals. Finding greater defensive solidity while maintaining that threat will be the immediate focus for the coaching staff.
Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming schedule on the official standings and fixtures pages. The match against Coventry represents a chance to climb the table before the next international break. A positive result would provide a platform for the demanding run of games that follows in October.
Brighton's next assignment is an away trip to face Coventry City at the Coventry Building Society Arena on Sunday, September 13th.
