Newcastle United £12m fresh injury doubt v Brighton & Hove Albion - plus Sean Longstaff update

Jacob Murphy is a doubt for Newcastle United’s Premier League clash against Brighton and Hove Albion (kick-off 8pm).

The Magpies’ winger dropped out of the starting XI for Saturday afternoon’s 2-2 draw at Leeds United because of a sore groin.

Murphy was named in the matchday squad but wasn’t fit enough to be introduced from the bench. For the visit of Brighton, the 28-year-old is likely to miss out altogether.

Meanwhile, Sean Longstaff has been ruled out but Howe remains hopeful the midfielder will play a part in United’s remaining two games against Leicester City and Chelsea.

Longstaff has missed matches versus Southampton, Arsenal and Leeds after sustaining a foot injury during the 4-1 win at Everton on April 27.

“We’re clear on the injury, it’s just how long it takes to heal,” head coach Eddie Howe said. He made good progress yesterday so let’s see how he feels today. He won’t be involved in this game.”

Newcastle are also without Jamaal Lascelles (calf), Emil Krafth (ACL) and Matt Ritchie (knee), who play again in 2022-23.

Howe’s men can open up a four-point gap over fifth-place Liverpool, who beat Leicester City on Monday.

“It’s a huge game, one we’re looking forward to,” Howe said. “I think it’s going to be a really good game between two excellent teams.

“I’ve got a lot of respect for Brighton and what they’ve done this season and how they play. I watched them against Arsenal and I was hugely impressed.

“It’s going to be a really tough assignment for us but one at home that we’re not fearful of. We’re going to take a big step forward, hopefully.”

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