‘Waste of money’ – Brighton fans incensed by starter’s ’embarrassing’ display vs Aston Villa
Brighton supporters were outraged by Mats Wieffer’s performance against Aston Villa in their shocking 4-3 defeat.
Despite Aston Villa being linked with Brentford’s Igor Thiago, Ollie Watkins finally found his shooting boots as he bagged a brace against the Seagulls on 3 December.
Fabian Hurzeler’s side quickly led 2-0 in the first half, before throwing away the lead to the benefit of Unai Emery who was evidently delighted with his team’s response.
Whilst Nottingham Forest target Jack Hinshelwood produced an impactful performance, Brighton fans were annoyed by the overall displays of their players, including Wieffer.
Mats Wieffer’s best position questioned as Brighton fans challenge Fabian Hurzeler’s tactics
A talented individual, Wieffer was previously wanted by Liverpool in seasons gone by, due to his versatility and agility.
Yet, the Dutchman was found out against the Villains as he battled to prevent Morgan Rogers and Ian Maatsen from getting down the Seagulls’ right.
Although the number 27 delivered a pinpoint cross for Jan Paul van Hecke to nod home for the opener, that would be the best of his efforts in 90 minutes.
Wieffer won just three of his six tackles as well as failing to prevail in six of his 14 ground duels in the match.
| Selected stats vs Aston Villa (3 December) | Mats Wieffer |
| Minutes played | 90 |
| Possession lost | 13 |
| Tackles (won) | 6 (3) |
| Ground duels (won) | 14 (8) |
| Fouls | 2 |
| Dribbled past | 2 |
Crucially, the 26-year-old was dribbled past twice at right-back, including Maatsen drifting past him to deliver a brutal cross for Aston Villa‘s opener.
Amid a shaky showing in defence, The Netherlands international lost possession on 13 occasions as fans strongly debated whether Hurzeler should continue experimenting with him at right-back.
One Brighton supporter said: “Wieffer is an embarrassment of a footballer.” with another adding: “time to acknowledge what a waste of money Wieffer has been.”