Brighton confirm double injury blow ahead of Newcastle
Newcastle vs Brighton in the Premier League from St James’ Park - Saturday 3pm
Brighton will still be without their experienced midfield duo for Saturday's trip to Newcastle.
James Milner, who has missed the last three matches with a muscular issue, remains sidelined but is said to be "very close" to a return.
Head coach Fabian Hurzeler, speaking in today’s press conference, also revealed winger Solly March is struggling and is ruled out for the Newcastle clash.
Meanwhile, Pascal Gross, 34, has been excellent for Albion since his January return from Borussia Dortmund. He has been a virtual ever-present and has helped Albion’s late push for Europe.
Carlos Baleba and Yasin Ayari
The absence of Milner could see Carlos Baleba keep his place in the starting XI. Baleba impressed last time in the 3-0 victory over Chelsea and Hurzeler told Sussex World that his display against the Blues “reminded him of the Carlos Baleba of last season.”
The Cameroon international has struggled with form and fitness this term but a strong finish could help Albion’s late push for Europe.
"I am quite convinced he will do it because we saw Carlos Baleba from last season,” Hurzeler added in today’s presser. “His body language (Chelsea) was something I really liked because he was really staying alive."
Midfielder Yasin Ayari is also pushing to start. The Sweden international started and played well at Tottenham but dropped to the bench against Chelsea.
Brighton could go with a Baleba-Ayari partnership with Jack Hinshelwood operating in the No 10 role once more.
Push for Europe
Brighton are sixth and battling for European qualification next season. Another good performance and result at St James’ would boost Albion’s hopes but Hurzeler is not looking too far ahead.
"We will never get too low or too high. It is always about performance,” said the German. He then quoted his country man and former Liverpool boss, Jurgen Klopp.
"What we do today is the most important."