Chuba Akpom could return for Brighton’s clash with Derby

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Chuba Akpom: Striker scored Arsenal's third

Chuba Akpom: May be set for return

Brighton could have on-loan Arsenal forward Chuba Akpom back in contention for the visit of Derby following a knee problem.

Defender Shane Duffy is expected to be out for at least six weeks following surgery on his fractured ankle.

Norway centre-back Vegard Forren has joined the promotion-chasing Seagulls on a deal until the end of the season, so could come into contention.

Sebastien Pocognoli (groin) and fellow defender Gaetan Bong (knee) continue their recovery.

Derby could have defender Richard Keogh available again.

The centre-half has missed the last three matches with a calf injury, and Rams boss Steve McClaren will make a late call on his fitness along with that of midfielder Bradley Johnson, who picked up a knock to his shin during Tuesday’s 1-1 draw against Preston.

Jason Shackell, though, remains sidelined by a back problem, while forward Nick Blackman (knee) is also still out.

Defender Craig Forsyth (knee) and midfielder George Thorne (leg) are long-term absentees.