Brighton and Hove Albion travel to St. James’ Park to take on Newcastle United tomorrow night. The game comes after Brighton thumped Arsenal 3-0 at The Emirates on Sunday.

Manager Roberto De Zerbi has confirmed that goalkeeper Robert Sanchez has asked not to be involved in the game, citing personal reasons.

Speaking in his pre-match press conference ahead of the trip to Tyneside, De Zerbi said: “He decided everything. Robert decided everything at the moment. He wanted it this way (not travelling to be on the bench). Not me, not the club.”

Sanchez’s absence means Jason Steele will retain his place in between the sticks and will be looking to build on his solid performances.

Brighton will also be without Joel Veltman, Solly March, and Adam Webster, who are all out of action due to injury. Despite Julio Enciso limping off with cramp late on in the win over Arsenal, the Paraguayan is in the running for tomorrow’s trip to the Magpies.

Despite the mounting injury list, De Zerbi has admitted he is struggling to pick his best team for tomorrow’s clash with Newcastle, he said: “Julio Enciso is okay but in terms of first eleven for tomorrow, I am losing sleep for the best team.”

Overall, this promises to be an exciting game between two sides who will be hoping to take another step towards securing European football next season. The Seagulls will be hoping to overcome their injury setbacks and put another strong performance, while Newcastle will be hoping to get back on track having not won any of their last two matches and both Manchester United and Liverpool challenging them for a top four finish.