Percy Tau could make Brighton debut as soon as Sunday, 10 January

Brighton and Hove Albion head coach Graham Potter has suggested that South Africa’s Percy Tau could feature in their Round 3 FA Cup clash on Sunday.

Kick-off is at 21:45 SA time.

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The Premier League side are scheduled to face League Two side Newport County away at Rodney Parade – and Tau is in line to make his debut for The Seagulls.

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Should he play, it will complete a remarkable journey for the Bafana Bafana star who signed for Brighton from Mamelodi Sundowns for R50 million in July 2018, but was unable to secure a work permit.

Tau was then sent on loan to Belgian where he played for three different clubs, most notably Club Brugge and most recently, Anderlecht.

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Percy Tau’s form in the Champions League and domestically in Belgium swayed the decision to get his work permit paperwork in order and Brighton acted swiftly this week to recall him to England’s top-flight.

“It was his first day today and it’s exciting for all of us. He’s been training and playing in Belgium. He’s in the group for Sunday,” Potter said in his pre-match press conference for the FA Cup tie.

BRIGHTON KEPT A KEEN EYE ON TAU WHILE IN BELGIUM

Potter further confirmed that the club’s technical team monitored his progress with a keen eye during his time in Belgium as he now looks to impress at a higher level.

“We’ve closely monitored his performances in Belgium in the last three years,” Potter told the club’s official website.

“He’s been playing at a really good level, particularly with Bruges and Anderlecht where he has been involved in the Champions League, and his next step is to show he is ready to make the transition into the Premier League.

“He brings some different attributes and qualities to the group and he wants to take the next step in his career. We’re looking forward to working with him.”