Injury concerns for Howe as he plots the Seagulls' downfall in chase for Champions League spot

NEWCASTLE United head to Brighton for Sunday's testing Premier League clash knowing their Champions League fate is in their own hands.

- STUART JAMIESON

Four wins from their final four games will guarantee a place in the competition next season, although Eddie Howe will be acutely aware of the size of that challenge.

The Magpies have put themselves in the driving seat for a top-five finish, but face tricky games against Arsenal and Chelsea after Sunday's Amex Stadium encounter, before a final-day showdown with Everton at St James' Park.

With no midweek games, the United squad can at least take full advantage of recovery time between matches, but Howe still has some injury concerns this weekend.

Brazilian midfielder Joelinton has been ruled out for Sunday's game after not training all week.