Chris Hughton says Brighton must be realistic after tough start

Chris Hughton admits Brighton have to be realistic following their difficult start to the season as they were beaten 2-0 away to Manchester City in the Premier League on Saturday.

City had to be patient at the Etihad Stadium, but goals from Raheem Sterling and Sergio Aguero eventually gave the hosts the win, leaving Brighton without a win in six in all competitions.

But Hughton noted how difficult Brighton's fixtures have been this season, having played Tottenham, Liverpool and Man Utd so far, and says realism is key.

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He told Sky Sports: "What we have to be is realistic, and certainly our supporters are. We've played seven games, four against the top six, two other games away from home, with one at Watford, who have started so well.

"When we are evaluating where we are at the moment, we have to take that into context. Having said that, we have the best chance of picking up the majority of our points outside the top six, and we have to do that."

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Though Hughton was pleased with Brighton's backs-to-the-wall defending at the home of the champions, he feels they could have done more on the ball when counter-attacking.

"It's impossible to come here and have more possession, play expansive, because they are such a good team. You have to set yourself up with a defensive strategy, but to keep the ball and cause as many problems as you can.

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"We probably needed to show a bit more quality as we broke out of defence. Maybe our work on the ball, under pressure, because of their press, could have been better. But they press so well and with such good energy.

"Certainly there are more positives today than negatives."

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