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| Callum Wilson of Newcastle United (9) arrives for the warm weather friendly match between Al-Ittihad and Newcastle United at Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium on January 28, 2022 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. |
Eddie Howe is hopeful that Allan Saint-Maximin will be fit for Newcastle United's game against Brighton & Hove Albion this weekend. The Magpies boss has revealed the 24-year-old hasn't trained with the squad but will make a decision closer to the time.
The Frenchman has missed the last two matches after picking up a calf injury in the 1-0 win over Aston Villa back in February. However, he has spent some time out in Monaco to speed up the recovery phase as he gets set for a return to competitive action.
There was some anticipation that Saint-Maximin would be fit to face Brentford last weekend, but Howe didn't decided to risk him. Although he hasn't been involved with the team in the build-up to the clash with Graham Potter's men, he could be back available.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, he said: Maxi hasn’t trained yet with us but we’re hoping he does today. We’ll have to make a decision based off how he looks and how is injury status is after the session. Other than that, we’re as we were pre-Brentford.
However, Newcastle still have a growing injury list. Football Flame has taken a look at how the rest of the squad look ahead of the game against the Seagulls.
Matt Ritchie
Ritchie picked up a knee injury striking a ball and is said to be 'closer' according to Howe but won't be ready in time for the game against Brighton. He is set to return to training next week.
Issac Hayden
There is still no return date for the defensive midfielder who has been out of action since January.
Kieran Trippier
The loss of Trippier to a broken foot is a huge blow for Howe's side and the manager revealed they hoped to have him back in the latter games of the season after he had surgery on the issue. The 31-year-old scored in two of his opening four matches at the club.
Callum Wilson
Another who has no return date in sight after a serious calf injury sustained against Manchester United. Howe's last update mentioned 'slow progress.'
Jamal Lewis
Lewis is ruled out with a long-term groin injury and may not even return before the end of the season. Matt Targett's excellent form at left-back could limit his minutes in that position, too.
