Eddie Howe expecting double injury boost ahead of Brighton game next weekend

When one door closes another one opens as they say, and while Newcastle United had some negative injury news this morning, there was also some positive updates too.

Craig Hope has reported this morning that Kieran Trippier is set for a spell on the sidelines with a hamstring injury. While the extent of the injury is currently not known, it is very likely to keep him out of next weekend's clash with Brighton at least.

However, it's not all doom and gloom, in fact there are two players expected to return to contention for the Seagulls' visit according to that same column in the Daily Mail.

Both Callum Wilson and Alexander Isak were earmarked for a return to action after the international break, as was, at one point, Lewis Miley.

Getty Images

Alexander Isak should be ready to lead the line against Brighton

Hope didn't provide an update on Lewis Miley, but it was our understanding that it would just be a return to training for the wonderkid and that a return to first-team action would still be some time away.

However, Hope has said that both Isak and Wilson are on track to be back in contention to face Brighton.

Newcastle have gone into the last few games without a recognised striker, or in the case of the Carabao Cup game against Wimbledon, a striker with very little experience.

Callum Wilson can take up his super-sub role again

We expect it will be Alexander Isak who is recalled to the starting lineup with Wilson likely to be used as a late substitute for a couple of games to get some match sharpness back.

Wilson has not kicked a ball this season after suffering a back injury in pre-season while Isak has been nursing a broken toe after trying to play through the pain against Fulham.

Having both players fit and fighting for their place in the team will be huge for newcastle as each of them considerably raises their game when the other is waiting in the wings to take their spot, and on the odd times Howe has them both on the pitch together it has often produced excellent results.