Major Anthony Gordon update as Newcastle United handed double boost v Brighton
Newcastle United have been handed a double selection boost for their Premier League clash against Brighton.
Anthony Gordon is back in Newcastle United’s matchday for their Premier League clash at home to Brighton & Hove Albion.
The Magpies head into the game in a dismal run of form, losing five in a row and nine of their last 12 Premier League matches. Following Leeds United’s 3-1 win over Burnley on Friday night, Eddie Howe’s side have dropped to 15th in the table.
Newcastle are just as close to the relegation zone as they are to sixth-placed Brighton, with eight points the difference. There are some fears Howe’s men could be dragged into relegation trouble, but a win this afternoon would allay any concerns.
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Anthony Gordon back in NUFC’s squad v Brighton - Joelinton starts
And United have been handed a double boost. Joelinton is recalled to the starting XI in one change from Saturday’s 1-0 defeat at Arsenal, as Jacob Ramsey makes way. Gordon is on the bench after recovering from a hip flexor injury.
Howe confirmed pre-match Joelinton would be back in the squad: “Yeah, I mean, Joe is a massive part of what we do.
“He's got that will to win, that determination to fight for everything, every loose ball, every duel. He's there from the beginning of the game to the end.
“He's got that mentality that we need more of from more of the group. You see it from him every day in training. He's the one setting the standards in terms of that aspect.
“So, when he's not playing, we certainly miss something of his unique qualities and it'll be great to have him back available. He's a huge player for us in a number of positions, so we're delighted to have him back.”
And on Gordon, Howe said: “Yeah, [Gordon] did a session on Wednesday, part of the session on Wednesday,” Howe said. “Great to see him back and on the pitch.
“He's obviously a player of huge quality and one that we've missed. We'll make an assessment on his fitness closer to the game. We'll see.”
Newcastle United confirmed starting XI v Brighton
Newcastle United: Nick Pope, Sven Botman, Joelinton, Sandro Tonali, Malick Thiaw, William Osula, Jacob Murphy, Joe Willock, Dan Burn, Bruno Guimaraes (c ), Lewis Miley