Four Brighton stars ruled out of Newcastle United clash but Fabian Hurzeler could get triple boost

Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe hopes to welcome back two key players to his squad ahead of Saturday’s Premier League clash with European rivals Brighton.    But the visitors travel north without four key players as Fabian Hurzeler assesses his squad during the international break.

   The Magpies could have strikers Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson available this weekend, while United will have to operate without the renowned No.9 as Isak suffered a broken toe in the win against Wolves.    Wilson was out all season with a back injury in the pre-season and their return would be a double boost for Howe.

   But Brighton look set to be without striker Joao Pedro, with an ankle injury likely to rule the Brazilian out of the trip to St James’ Park.    He joins first-choice centre-back Jan Paul van Hecke on the sidelines, with the Dutchman out with a groin injury.

   Summer signing Matt O’Riley is another casualty, with the former Celtic star out with an ankle knock and defender Adam Webster out with a hamstring injury.    However, it’s not all bad news for Hurzeler as he was able to welcome Simon Adingra back into his traveling group.    He has recovered from a hamstring problem and is likely to make the squad.

   Former Newcastle United midfielder James Milner should be available again after a few weeks out, while Soly March could return after almost a year out with a knee injury.

   “It’s one step at a time,” Hurzeler said last March.   “Now he trains fully with us, but it’s not like he can train in every training session. We have to be very patient. We have to go step by step, but it’s positive that he’s back at the training ground.

   “He can go with that intensity. He’s in very good shape. We’re all impressed with how good he is after a long injury. Now it’s not about putting pressure on him. It’s about helping him, giving him a good environment,  where he can adapt quickly. You really feel he wants to get back on the field as soon as possible, so we’re giving him all the help he needs.”

   Newcastle will again be without Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles, who are recovering from ACL surgery, while Kieran Trippier will be out for several weeks after injuring his hamstring in the goalless draw against Everton.