MMA fighter helps Brighton improve set-piece duels

Football

Brighton and Hove Albion head coach Fabian Hurzeler has confirmed the club used an MMA fighter to improve physical resilience in training.

Hurzeler revealed that a Mixed Martial Arts specialist visited the club to assist with defensive and offensive set-pieces. The manager said the fighter worked with the squad a couple of months ago to provide techniques for winning one-on-one duels. According to the Argus, Hurzeler aims to move away from the perception of Brighton being a nice team.

Midfielder Jack Hinshelwood previously mentioned the unusual training guest during a radio interview. Hurzeler stated that the initiative followed discussions regarding new Premier League trends like blocking. The coach explained that because his team is not the tallest in the division, players must find innovative ways to remain resilient against physical opponents, per the Premier League.

Brighton currently sit sixth in the Premier League table after 34 matches. The team has collected 50 points so far this season, according to Sporting Life. The Seagulls travel to face Newcastle United in their next fixture on Saturday.

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