Newcastle’s lineup vs. Brighton is highlighted by Almiron’s surprise return

Newcastle United are looking to pick up a crucial victory today in their quest for Premier League safety, despite their long odds to do so. At the top of the hour, they have another chance to defeat a relegation rival when they take on Brighton.

While wins have been tough to come by for the Magpies, they did receive a major boost in the starting lineup today. One of their key attacking stars has returned from injury ahead of schedule.

A knee injury was supposed to put him on the shelf until April, but Miguel Almiron is back in the starting XI vs. Brighton.

With Steve Bruce stubborn with his tactics, he will likely have Miguel Almiron playing as a false nine, flanked by Ryan Fraser and Joelinton. The Paraguayan was filling that role before his injury vs. Wolves.

Miguel Almiron’s early return from injury gives Newcastle’s starting XI a boost vs. Brighton.

The midfield trio remains unchanged with Isaac Hayden, Jonjo Shelvey, and Joe Willock playing behind the attack. Willock was playing in a more attacking role without Almiron in the lineup.

Another key player returns on the backline, too. Javier Manquillo, after appearing as a substitute last week, is back in his starting role at right-back. Opposite him, Paul Dummett is still starting at left-back.

This is another match that Bruce elected to leave Elliot Anderson and Matty Longstaff out of the squad entirely. His midfield depth is Jeff Hendrick and Sean Longstaff.

Newcastle does have Andy Carroll and Dwight Gayle as available substitutes on the bench. Jamal Lewis, Jacob Murphy, and Matt Ritchie can provide a boost on the wing or at full-back. Federico Fernandez is still unable to reclaim his starting position in the central defense.