Steve Bruce has positive news on Andy Carroll – as he waits on Sean Longstaff

And the striker – who had ankle surgery late last season and saw a specialist on Friday – could make his comeback against Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday.

“It’s gone OK,” said head coach Steve Bruce. “He’ll hopefully train all week. It’s a big week, training-wise. If he can do it without a reaction, that’s the important thing.”

Bruce’s options have been limited by injuries. He said: “We haven’t got much coming off the bench. Allan Saint-Maximin, Andy and Dwight Gayle are crucial in that department. We have been dealt a difficult hand there. We’ve picked up injuries that have limited us a little bit. It’s a big week for a couple of them, Andy in particular. It would give us a goal threat.”

Meanwhile, midfielder Sean Longstaff is “touch and go” for the game after twisting his ankle, according to Bruce.