Brighton boss Graham Potter has urged his international stars not to allow the prospect of featuring at the winter World Cup to become detrimental to their Premier League form.
Albion, who travel to West Ham on Sunday, have started the season strongly with four points from two games on the back of a maiden top-half finish last term.
Ecuador left-back Pervis Estupinan this week increased the number of Qatar hopefuls in the Seagulls’ squad, joining the likes of compatriots Moises Caicedo and Jeremy Sarmiento, Spain goalkeeper Robert Sanchez, Argentina midfielder Alexis Mac Allister and Belgium forward Leandro Trossard.
While Potter understands the hype around the World Cup, which begins in three months’ time, he has advised his players to concentrate on club matters. “It’s only my opinion but a huge mistake they would make would be to think too far ahead in terms of the World Cup; Premier League matches is what’s going to get you there,” he said. “So focus on the now, be in the moment. “It’s a massive thing, there’s no denying it, it’s the World Cup and of course it influences or affects people. “But for our boys they’re very focused, very intelligent in terms of knowing what’s the best way I can get there. “And a good way is by really focusing on the now, helping us win football matches and performing well as a team.” Netherlands defender Joel Veltman, Poland pair Jakub Moder and Kacper Kozlowski, Ghana hopeful Tariq Lamptey and Japan midfielder Kaoru Mitoma will also be eyeing World Cup involvement.