Brighton and Hove Albion will start the new Premier League season without their first-choice goalkeeper, Bart Verbruggen.

Verbruggen, who shone for the Netherlands at Euro 2024 and played a pivotal role in their journey to the semi-finals before their dramatic defeat to England, is sidelined by an unspecified injury expected to keep him out for six weeks. The 21-year-old, brought in from Anderlecht last summer for £16 million, was set to be the primary keeper under new head coach Fabian Hurzeler. Last season, Verbruggen shared goalkeeping duties with Jason Steele, making 27 appearances as former manager Roberto De Zerbi rotated the two to acclimate Verbruggen to Premier League play.

Verbruggen will miss Brighton’s pre-season tour in Japan and at least the first two league matches—against Everton on August 17 and Manchester United on August 24. His potential return could be against Arsenal on August 31.

In Verbruggen’s absence, Jason Steele is likely to step up again, though Carl Rushworth, who impressed on loan at Swansea last season, may also have an opportunity to make his mark. Additionally, Brighton has Canada international Tom McGill available, while Kjell Scherpen and James Beadle are currently on loan at Sturm Graz and Sheffield Wednesday, respectively.