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Brighton manager Chris Hughton says Socceroos goalkeeper Mat Ryan has returned from the Asian Cup in very good shape and will go straight into the team for Tuesday’s EPL clash with Fulham.
Ryan has been absent for Albion since Boxing Day due to the Asian Cup in the United Arab Emirates.
The 26-year-old, who missed six fixtures in all competitions during that time, had previously been an ever-present for the Seagulls in the Premier League.
However, Hughton has no concerns about the condition of his number one.
“He’s fine. Maty’s one of these ones that because of where he plays his international football is used to travelling,” said Hughton.
“We’ve had this for the last couple of seasons where he’s played on the back of a return flight from Australia a few days before.
“So, as regards him and his physicality, he’s in very good shape.”
Albion, in 13th place, have a seven-point cushion on the relegation zone ahead of the trip to Craven Cottage and are 12 points above second-bottom Fulham.
Despite the big-spending west London club’s disappointing campaign following promotion from the Championship, Hughton says he has been impressed with some of their performances.
“Their form hasn’t gone how they would have liked, certainly with what they’ve brought in in the summer. But that’s the Premier League and the difficulties of playing in this league,” he said.
“What I’ve seen in Fulham are some good displays.
“They don’t look like a team that has had a difficult season, which always makes it hard and for a club like us.”
© AAP
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