Early team news - 3 ruled out, NUFC star facing late fitness test & Brighton dealt double blow

Eddie Howe has offered updates on the fitness of FOUR Newcastle players ahead of tomorrow's clash with Brighton.

He's confirmed that a late decision will be made on Allan Saint-Maximin after he only returned to training today, while Callum Wilson, Kieran Trippier and Matt Ritchie have been ruled out once again.

However, Howe has revealed that Ritchie should be back next week, while Trippier is making 'good progress' after having his stitches removed following surgery on his foot.

The NUFC boss has also discussed Bruno Guimaraes, insisting he will get his opportunity soon - especially with the amount of games we have coming up over the next fortnight.

As for Brighton, Graeme Potter has revealed that star centre-back Adam Webster will be missing, while record signing Enock Mwepu has suffered an injury setback.

Here's what Howe had to say on the fitness front when speaking to the press on Friday:

Howe on Saint-Maximin:

“I think Maxi coming back has given everyone a lift.

"Hopefully he gets through [training] today and then we’ll make a decision.

“Aside from that, I think we’re as we were with team fitness pre-Brentford.

Howe on Bruno Guimaraes:

"He’s not going to want to sit and watch for a long period of time.

"He's going to want to play.

"The amount of games we’ve got coming up, he will get his opportunity.

"It’s then up to him to play so well I don’t want to take him out"

Howe on Kieran Trippier and Callum Wilson:

“Kieran’s done well. He’s had his stitches out on his foot so he’s making good progress. We’re happy.

“Callum is as we were really. He’s working towards returning. He’s working hard on certain aspects.

"He’s not running yet. We haven’t seen him outside yet.

“I think with the last update I gave you he’s still on track from there.”

Howe on Matt Ritchie:

“Matty’s doing really well. He’s had a period where he’s been away. He’s come back and looking good.

“We hope he will train maybe next week. I think once he trains he’ll be up to speed quite quickly because he’s been able to maintain his fitness. So he’s been able to run in between.