Evan Ferguson poised to start FA Cup tie for Brighton

Brighton boss Robert de Zerbi will be hoping that Evan Ferguson can make the same impact he had against Stoke last season when the Republic of Ireland forward is restored to the starting line-up for Saturday's FA Cup third round encounter against the Potters.

Ferguson's first-half winner settled the fifth-round tie during a memorable run which culminated in a semi-final defeat to Manchester United.

Brighton were beaten 7-6 on penalties by United at Wembley after a game, in which the Seagulls dominated possession, finished goalless.

Ferguson has been deployed sparingly over the festive period, with his last start coming in a 2-0 loss to Arsenal in the Premier League on 17 December.

"It’s a very important target for us, especially when we think of other years," boss De Zerbi said at the club's press conference ahead of the game.

"We lost the semi-final in a bad way and we still remember that game.

"This is an important game and I want us to give our best, and that we play seriously.

"To reach the semi-final was exciting and we want to go forward again."

Stoke are now under the command of Steven Schumacher and enjoying an upturn in fortunes after a miserable campaign.

The Sky Bet Championship club are unbeaten under Schumacher, having won once and drawn three since the former Plymouth manager took over.

De Zerbi said: "They are playing well, they played 25 minutes with 10 players in the last game against Ipswich and didn’t lose.

"They played another good game in Watford and we have to be focused in counter-attack.

"They are a good aggressive team who play with a clear style in ball possession. I’s another tough game.

"If you want to win you must fight for 90 minutes and play well."

De Zerbi also confirmed that Poland midfielder Jakub