By Dorcas Francis Koji
Brighton forward Femi Azeez faces a late fitness assessment ahead of Wednesday’s Carabao Cup meeting with Manchester United, with head coach Fabian Hurzeler confirming that the Nigerian remains in contention to make his debut for the club.
Azeez joined Brighton from Millwall on deadline day in a deal reportedly worth more than £15 million but has yet to feature for the Seagulls after suffering an injury during the opening game of the Championship season.
The 25-year-old made his final appearance for Millwall in their 2-0 victory over Bristol City but has been sidelined since, missing Brighton’s recent fixtures against Leeds United and Coventry City.
Hurzeler, however, has revealed that Azeez could return to the squad against United if he completes training without suffering any setback.
“Azeez needs to be assessed in training ahead of Wednesday’s EFL Cup game against Manchester United,” Hurzeler said.
His potential return would provide Brighton with another attacking option as they prepare for a difficult Carabao Cup encounter against United.
Brighton drew 1-1 with Leeds before producing an emphatic 5-0 victory over Coventry last weekend, while they will face a United side they defeated 2-1 in last season’s FA Cup.
Azeez enjoyed an impressive 2025/26 campaign with Millwall, scoring 11 goals and providing seven assists across all competitions.
His performances earned him recognition in the PFA Championship Team of the Season and helped attract Brighton’s interest in the Nigerian winger.
The move represents a significant step in Azeez’s career, but his start at the Amex has been delayed by injury.
He became the second Nigerian to join Brighton during the summer transfer window, following the arrival of Zadok Yohanna from Swedish club AIK.
With his first appearance for Brighton still pending, Azeez will now hope to prove his fitness during training and give Hurzeler the option of handing him his long-awaited debut against Manchester United.
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