Brighton v Bristol City

Last updated : 24 February 2007 By Morris (Bristol)

Brighton defender Joel Lynch looks set to miss out against Bristol City after straining knee ligaments in the midweek win over Gillingham.

Joe O'Cearuill could therefore return to the Seagulls' defence at right-back, with the versatile Adam El-Abd moving inside to partner Guy Butters in the centre.

On-loan Crystal Palace keeper Scott Flinders is set to keep his place in goal with regular first-choice Michel Kuipers still struggling with a groin injury.

Boss Dean Wilkins will otherwise start with the side which has beaten Nottingham Forest and the Gills in their last two games, although fit-again striker Alex Revell is pushing hard to partner in-form Bas Savage after overcoming an ankle injury.

Adam Hinshelwood, Paul Reid (both knee) and Charlie Oatway (ankle) remain long-term absentees.

Bristol City boss Gary Johnson could hand a debut to Northern Ireland international Andy Smith in the clash.

But Scott Murray was the victim of a late challenge from Bristol Rovers midfielder Craig Disley in midweek and is unlikely to feature.

He was replaced after 42 minutes on Wednesday night but scans have showed that there was no break in his foot and Cole Skuse is favourite to replace him in midfield.

Forward Enoch Showunmi missed the cup draw with a groin injury and is unlikely to feature, while Alex Russell is also doubtful with a tight hamstring.

Defender Jamie McCombe is also struggling with a hip injury while Jamie McAllister is back from a two-game suspension and will be hoping to shake off an ankle injury to feature.

Sub goalkeeper Chris Weale (knee) is also a fitness doubt as Gary Johnson's side seek to improve on their recent form of one win in seven.