The key Brighton and Hove Albion player ruled out of Newcastle United clash - with another unlikely to start

Brighton and Hove Albion will be without defender Adam Webster following his injury setback.

The 27-year-old, who was on Newcastle United’s transfer radar in January, has missed the previous two games with a groin problem.

His absence has had a negative impact on the Seagulls, who have lost back-to-back home games against Burnley and Aston Villa.

Graham Potter’s side had previously lost just one of their last six games with Webster in the starting XI.

“Adam Webster will still be missing,” Potter confirmed.

“He was set back in his injury so he has an outside chance of Tottenham but otherwise it’ll be after the international break.”

In Lewis Dunk’s absence, Webster formed a strong central defensive partnership with Dan Burn before his £13million move to Tyneside on deadline day.

Since Burn left the south coast for his boyhood club, Albion have conceded 10 goals in five games, whereas the Magpies have only shipped two.

Albion are set to welcome Adam Lallana back into the squad following his absence against Villa last weekend - but he is only fit enough to make the bench at St James’ Park.

Potter has been forced to manage the 33-year-old’s Premier League minutes as he played just 55 minutes in the 3-0 loss to Burnley and missed out altogether for the 2-0 loss at Man United.

The former Liverpool midfielder has had limited training this week as Potter hinted at a substitue appearance instead of a starting spot.

Potter, speaking on Thursday, said: “Adam Lallana has made good progress. We think he’ll train tomorrow, hopefully. So that’s good for us.

“Whether he’s able to start the game is another thing but it’s good to have him available.”

Meanwhile, Brighton could welcome back attacker Jeremy Sarmiento as he is nearing a return following a lengthy hamstring injury.

Enock Mwepu is back in training but Saturday is likely to come too soon.