West Ham boost as 'fantastic' Brighton talisman likely to miss trip to London Stadium

West Ham have struggled for defensive stability this season but have had hopes of a potential clean sheet against Brighton this weekend boosted by news that the Seagulls could be arriving at the London Stadium without the services of the in-form Danny Welbeck.

The former Arsenal and Manchester United striker has already plundered six Premier League goals this season, leading the line for Fabian Hurzeler's side. However, Welbeck missed out of the painful defeat to Crystal Palace last weekend and looks set to be sidelined once again when facing the Hammers.

Speaking in his press conference today, Hurzeler confirmed that the player was 'not in the best shape' ahead of Saturday. Welbeck hasn't started a league match since the 1-1 draw with Southampton at the end of November.

Brighton were humbled in front of a home crowd by fierce rivals Crystal Palace on Sunday. Oliver Glasner's side left Sussex as 3-1 winners, leaving the Seagulls in need of a bounceback against West Ham.

Julen Lopetegui's men picked up a point on the road at AFC Bournemouth on Monday night in a match punctuated by late drama. Lucas Paqueta looked to have earned his side three points with an 87th-minute penalty but Enes Unal levelled minutes later for the hosts.

Lopetegui's West Ham continue to struggle for consistency in the Premier League as the New Year approaches with pressure still on the Spaniard. The Hammers have managed just three clean sheets in the league this season and have conceded three or more goals in six of their 16 outings.

The absence of Welbeck is an undoubted boost. The former England international has faced West Ham 23 times in his career with seven goals against the London outfit.

Graham Potter praises ‘fantastic’ Brighton striker

The 34-year-old has found a new lease of life under Hurzeler this season, his six goals so far already a joint best return for a campaign since managing nine in the 2013/14 season at Manchester United. Welbeck has been praised for his efforts, with former Brighton manager Graham Potter recently saying on Match of the Day 2: "He has been fantastic on and off the pitch. He just brings that experience and that winning know-how.

"He knows how to act and how to be in a winning dressing room. He has really helped the young players at the club. It is great to see him scoring as well, because obviously he is a centre-forward and he wants to score goals."