Newcastle: Joe Willock and Joelinton injured against Brighton

The Magpies took a big step towards securing a place in next season’s Champions League with a 4-1 win over Albion – but the victory could have come at a price.

Joe Willock was injured in the second half, while Joelinton also suffered a knock. Both are now doubtful for Leicester City’s visit on Monday.

Eddie Howe said: “The two Joes are a bit questionable for us. Joelinton took a hit and Willock looks like he has a hamstring injury.”

Elliot Anderson came on for Newcastle when Willock was substituted at a crucial point in the game. Brighton had halved the deficit to 2-1 and tensions arose.

Howe said: “I think Elliot was very unlucky. His last big contribution to the team was decisive at Nottingham Forest, with the help of the other players he helped turn the game around for us that night.”

“Since then, other players have recovered and it has been difficult for him to get playing time simply because of the strength of the group. We really believe in Elliot and also in a number of different positions. He showed his versatility.” I came on on the right side of midfield and did a really good job.

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Howe was pleased with his side’s performance as Newcastle came within two points of the Champions League.

A Deniz Undav own goal put Newcastle on their way to victory before Dan Burn scored a header in first-half injury time. Undav scored for Brighton but Callum Wilson scored in the last minute before Bruno struck in added time.

Howe said: “I thought it was a brilliant performance from us without possession. Really very good. Especially in the first half I felt we were very good and unlucky not to score more goals, especially in open play.”

“We depended on set pieces but with Brighton you always worry that the less they have to lose when they’re 2-0 down, the harder they can make it. I thought they were very good in the second half. We had to.” Dare, be resilient and watch the game end.

“When you’re in my position, you need different ways to win. It can never be about pure, beautiful football at this level because teams are always a threat and cause problems.”

“Brighton has their way of playing and it’s a really beautiful style, really brave, I admire it a lot. It was our job to disrupt their rhythm and prevent them from penetrating us, like they’ve done with a lot of Premier League teams.” I thought we did that really well, that’s when we have our quality and shown threat.”