Brighton striker Joao Pedro has suffered a fresh injury blow that has left him a major doubt for Saturday’s Premier League clash against Newcastle United.

The 22-year-old has a superb return of 20 goals in 38 appearances this term but saw his season interrupted by a hamstring injury in February, missing six games as a result.

He has started five of Brighton’s last six games, scoring the winner against Aston Villa last time out.

The Seagulls have a double game week ahead of them, away to the Magpies on Saturday afternoon before hosting Chelsea on Wednesday. They end the season at home to Manchester United next Sunday.

Pedro however could miss tomorrow afternoon’s test at St James’ Park.

Roberto De Zerbi told a press conference on Friday: ‘Joao Pedro has an ankle problem. It’s sad news for us. Today it happened and I don’t know if he can play tomorrow.

‘I am sad for that because Joao is important for us, especially in this moment when Julio Enciso and Ansu Fati are not at the top of their level of condition.’

Brighton have a number of injury problems but could have Tariq Lamptey back in the squad this weekend.

‘He can’t start; tomorrow, we will see if he can come on the bench or not,’ the Brighton boss said.

Newcastle have injury concerns of their own as they look for a strong end to the season with Europa League qualification still up for grabs.

Kieran Trippier is facing a late fitness test having been unavailable since February.

‘He’s getting closer and he’s trained this week, for the first time with the group,’ Howe said of his captain.

‘We are really pleased, he trained well and we will make a decision today in terms of whether he is involved tomorrow.

‘He is desperate to be involved and he has been contribute for a few weeks. He knows that he has to manage his injury and make sure there is no recurrence of the calf injury. He is refreshed and has had some time away. It has helped him mentally and he’s raring to go.’