Interesting injury news emerges before Newcastle United vs Brighton - one to watch
Brighton defender Jan Paul van Hecke has been pictured training ahead of their trip to Newcastle United.
The Dutchman has missed Brighton’s previous two Premier League fixtures after aggravating a groin injury. In his absence, Adam Webster has partnered Lewis Dunk at the heart of the Seagulls’ defence.
Van Hecke revealed earlier this month that he aimed to return following the October international break. He said: “I have been dealing with it (groin injury) for a while, I have also played matches with it, but in the final phase against Nottingham Forest it shot into my groin.
“Afterward, we had a scan done and it became clear that there was a big tear in it. I feel like I am slightly ahead of schedule. I hope that it will go a bit faster and that I can rejoin sooner.”
The defender has now been spotted being put through his paces ahead of Brighton’s trip to Tyneside. Joao Pedro, James Milner, Solly March and Matt O’Riley make up the rest of the visitor’s treatment table.
As for Newcastle, they also look set to enjoy some positive injury news as Callum Wilson and Alexander Isak are in contention this weekend. The Daily Mail reported last week that the strike duo are available - giving Eddie Howe a selection headache up front.
Newcastle have struggled to replicate their goalscoring exploits of last season so far in 2024-25. Isak has bagged just once while Wilson is yet to feature in 2024-25 due to a back problem.
Long-term absentees include Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles, both recovering from ACL injuries. NewcastleWorld revealed on Thursday, however, that Kieran Trippier will miss the clash after picking up a hamstring setback against Everton.