Eddie Howe reveals Newcastle United injury latest on Allan Saint-Maximin ahead of Brighton clash

Eddie Howe will make another late call on Allan Saint-Maximin ahead of the Brighton and Hove Albion game.

Newcastle’s head coach hopes to have the 24-year-old available, however that is dependent on whether he comes through Friday’s training session.

Saint-Maximin hasn’t trained since returning from France on Tuesday after undergoing specialised treatment on a calf injury.

Late decision on Allan Saint-Maximin

“Maxi hasn’t trained yet with us, hopefully he does today,” Howe told reporters at the club’s Benton training base.

“We’ll make a decision based on how he looks and how his injury status is after that training session.”

Without the Frenchman, the Magpies maintained their unbeaten run by drawing with West Ham before beating Brentford last Saturday.

Howe warned after the 2-0 win in West London that Saint-Maximin isn’t guaranteed to walk straight into the starting XI.

Competition for places

Howe said: “When I first came into the job, we wanted competition for places.

“I don’t think we’re absolutely there yet but there is healthy competition in the squad. From my side watching training, people are evaluating their levels.

“There is a fight to get in the team and then when they’re in the team, there is a fight to stay in the team.

“Maxi coming back has given everyone a lift.”