NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 18: Newcastle United Head Coach Eddie Howe speaks during the Newcastle United Press Conference at The Newcastle United Training Centre on October 18, 2022 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images)
When Newcastle United plays the Seagulls at St. James’ Park on Saturday, supporters are anxious about the health of their two best strikers.
Due to a toe injury, Alexander Isak has missed Newcastle’s last three games, and Callum Wilson has missed the entire season due to a back and hamstring issue.
It was evident throughout the 0-0 tie with Everton that Newcastle was having trouble without a reliable striker. The Magpies were unable to create opportunities because Anthony Gordon had to play across the middle rather than out wide.
But during the international break, there was hope. Eddie Howe would be greatly aided by the reports that Wilson and Isak would be ready to play against Brighton.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem like that will happen.
The media has heard from Eddie Howe before of Newcastle United’s match against Brighton.
He has given updates on Callum Wilson’s and Alexander Isak’s injuries.
It’s wonderful news regarding the former.
“Alex has trained and trained well; he looked good during his training at the beginning of this week,” the man stated.
“He’s going to be competitive this weekend.”
With Wilson, though, it’s a different story.
“Callum has received training, but we will keep evaluating it on a daily basis,” he stated.
“We have to be sure that reintroducing him to the group comes at the appropriate moment. Making the right decision is crucial because we want to keep him around for a very long time once we get him back.
Chris Sutton has picked Newcastle to triumph over Brighton—but only if Isak is healthy enough to play.
If the 25-year-old makes it through training on Friday, it appears he will be available.
With Isak, Newcastle has adopted a conservative strategy that seems to have paid off. He is well and prepared to play again after his injury.
Anthony Gordon and Eddie Howe will be happy about it. The 23-year-old can now play out wide, where he prefers to operate, thanks to Isak’s comeback.
Whether Gordon will be on the right or left is still up in the air. Whether Howe chooses to deploy Harvey Barnes or Jacob Murphy in the attacking role will determine that.
Given that Brighton is known for being a tough side to play against and that Jacob Murphy is stronger at processing tactical information, the latter may be a better fit for the Brighton match.
Our suggested starting lineup for Newcastle’s match against Brighton places Murphy on the right, Gordon on the left, and Isak in the middle.
