Freak injury cuts season short as Howe shares good & bad news ahead of Arsenal's trip to SJP

Speaking to the press after Sunday's 3-1 win over Southampton, Eddie Howe has revealed that Sean Longstaff has a chance of returning for next weekend's clash with Arsenal.

It was reported before kick-off that the midfielder may not play again this season due to a foot injury picked up at Everton, but it seems an x-ray suggests there's "no break of fracture."

However, one player who has now been ruled out for our final five games is club captain Jamaal Lascelles, who picked up a freak calf injury in the gym.

Howe believes his absence will be a "big blow", hailing the defender's influence behind-the-scenes, but it's reassuring to hear Longstaff could yet feature against Arsenal in seven days time. Here's what the boss had to say when asked for an injury update:

Howe on Sean Longstaff

“Sean picked up a knock on his foot. We sent him for an x-ray. There’s no break or fracture we think.

"We hope it’s just bad bruising. He wasn’t available today but we hope he’ll be back soon.”

Howe on Jamaal Lascelles

“He’s picked up a calf injury in the gym. It looks like his season could be over.

"A really big disappointment for us because he’s been incredible behind the scenes. It’s a big blow.”