Why patient Baleba brought back good memories for his boss

Brighton and Hove Albion FC Football Sport

Albion believe they saw the best of Carlos Baleba against Chelsea.

But he faces stiff competition for a midfield role in the run-in.

The Cameroon international started for only the second time since the FA Cup tie at Liverpool and had his first full game in almost three months.

He shone as Albion dominated the world’s most expensive midfield combination of Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo.

Albion launched their recent good run with James Milner in the No.6 role.

When Milner was sidelined for the Burnley game, Yasin Ayari came into the side.

But Baleba, who looks a more obvious replacement in the deep-lying berth, got his chance on Tuesday.

Albion head coach Fabian Hurzeler said: “Yasin played a good game against Tottenham in this position.

“Carlos had to be patient but what I see in Carlos is a player who has something we don’t have in our squad.

A lot of physicality, a lot of dominance and, if he plays on his highest level, then he is a key player for us.

“I was also reminded of the Carlos from last season.

“Physicality, very present, simple football, staying alive all the time.

“I am really happy to see hm like this because we always see the player, Carlos, but we don’t see the person behind Carlos.

“He is still a very young player.

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“He has had a few lows and highs and we try to give him the environment where he can be secure.

“An environment where he can make mistakes and we are always there to push him.”

Milner has now missed three games but is expected to be back before the end of the season.