Speaking to the press just moments ago, Eddie Howe has confirmed that tomorrow’s clash with Brighton will come too soon for Sean Longstaff.
He also revealed that Jacob Murphy is a ‘doubt’ with a groin injury – which forced him to miss last weekend’s trip to Leeds – while Jamaal Lascelles (calf) and Matt Ritchie (knee) won’t feature, looking unlikely to play again this season.
Back to Longstaff, Howe admits that we are now ‘clear on the injury’ he’s picked up and are simply waiting for it to heal. He insists the midfielder is making ‘good progress’ – suggesting he should play again this season – but he won’t be fit for Thursday night’s clash at St James’ Park.
Here’s what the boss had to say on both injury issues during this morning’s press conference:
Howe on Sean Longstaff
“We’re quite clear on the injury, it’s just how long it takes to heal. He made good progress yesterday so let’s see how he feels today. He won’t be involved in this game.”
Howe on Jacob Murphy
“Jacob is probably the one doubt we have.”
