Ryan Fraser’s Newcastle United absence at Brighton & Hove Albion explained

Eddie Howe has revealed why Ryan Fraser missed Newcastle United’s 0-0 draw at Brighton and Hove Albion.

While all the pre-match focus was on Matt Targett’s absence due to a dead leg sustained against Nottingham Forest, Fraser was a notable absence.

The Scotland international wasn’t named among the substitutes in a game where the Magpies could have benefited from his introduction in the closing stages.

“He had a slight back spasm on Thursday and Friday,” Howe revealed. “He was close to making the game.”