Potential Miguel Almiron return gives Newcastle hope ahead of Brighton clash

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Newcastle United are desperately missing Miguel Almiron.

While the loss of Callum Wilson and Allan Saint-Maximin has hit us hard, it is arguably the loss of the Paraguayan that has had the biggest impact.

Almiron was playing brilliantly before his injury, thriving in his new role after spending so long playing out of position.

The 27-year-old was operating in the number 10 position, leading Newcastle’s press with his speed and energy.

During his absence, no one has been able to replicate Almiron’s success.

Joe Willock did alright against West Brom but is clearly more comfortable playing deeper, while Ryan Fraser and Dwight Gayle didn’t offer much against Aston Villa either.

The loss of Newcastle’s three best attackers has been a huge blow to our survival hopes. However, there could be a light at the end of the tunnel this weekend.

Almiron possibly set for early return

When he was first injured, Bruce was left fearing the worst.

However, results of a scan brought news that Almiron would be out until April.

While there is no chance of Wilson and Saint-Maximin returning this weekend, there is a possibility that Almiron could be back ahead of schedule.

“It’s going to be a little too early for Callum, we can already dismiss that. Miggy is a different option,” Bruce said.

“He is going along very, very nicely so we’ll keep our fingers crossed.”

Fingers crossed indeed. After Brighton’s win at the weekend, our game against the Seagulls is now even bigger.

We could be in the bottom three by the time we kick off, which would make the desperate situation at the club even more demoralising.

Newcastle seem incapable of winning without their three best attackers, while Bruce refuses to find a system that suits the players at his disposal.

But if Almiron returns, fans will have some hope. And Bruce will have a reason for sticking with his favoured formation.

The midfielder has scored four times in the Premier League this season, and Bruce will be hoping he can add to that tally if he does return to the side.

Fingers crossed that Almiron makes it through training this week and can play some part at the Amex on Saturday night. Without him, it could be another infuriating evening watching Bruce’s Magpies.