- Newcastle United star Anthony Gordon could return after missing last two games
- Brighton could be boosted by return of midfielder
- Seagulls star returns to training
Newcastle United need to turn a corner after losing five games in a row, following a defeat to Arsenal last weekend. They return home to face Fabian Hürzeler’s Brighton side.
Brighton had the weekend off due to FA Cup fixtures, but they beat Chelsea 3-0 in Liam Rosenior’s final game as Blues manager last Tuesday.
The Seagulls remain in the thick of the European race, while the Magpies will be targeting three points to help secure their top-flight status for next season, with pressure increasing after wins for West Ham and Tottenham.
Newcastle United team news
Anthony Gordon has been absent from the last two matchday squads for Eddie Howe’s side. The Daily Mail reported that a hip injury kept him out of the Bournemouth game, while the clash against Arsenal came too soon. It remains to be seen whether this weekend is the right time for his return or if he will still be unavailable.
Tino Livramento is on the road to recovery from a groin injury picked up against Bournemouth, while Joelinton will return after serving a suspension against Mikel Arteta’s side following 10 yellow cards.
Fabian Schär has undergone surgery on his foot after suffering an infection, with his possible return date set for the Nottingham Forest game. Emil Krafth is out for the season.
Doubts: Anthony Gordon Outs: Tino Livramento, Fabian Schär, Emil Krafth
Brighton team news
One player expected to return to the squad for the trip to St James’ Park is Solly March. Ahead of the Chelsea game, it was reported he had a minor issue, but nothing serious, and he should travel to Tyneside if there are no setbacks.
Former Newcastle midfielder James Milner also picked up a slight knock, but this game will come too soon for the Premier League appearance record holder.
Adam Webster suffered a cruciate ligament injury last July, but he finally returned to the pitch last week. The same goes for Diego Gomez, who was diagnosed with a knee injury a few weeks ago. They could both be ruled out until the start of the season, with four games remaining. Like Webster, Stefanos Tzimas confirmed he had a serious knee injury in December. He is ruled out until the first international break in September.
Doubts – Solly March Outs – James Milner, Adam Webster, Diego Gomez, Stefanos Tzimas
In other news, Newcastle United star Joe Willock sends emotional 11-word message to ex Arsenal teammate.
