Before this Saturday’s Premier League match against Newcastle, Brighton defender Jan Paul van Hecke appears to be recovering well from his groin injury.
Van Hecke, 24, has missed Albion’s last two Premier League games since he hurt his groin last month when the team drew 2-2 with Nottingham Forest at the Amex Stadium.
Before the international break, Brighton rallied for a 3-2 victory over Tottenham, but the Netherlands international missed the team’s 4-2 loss to Chelsea.
Despite being projected to miss six weeks of action, Van Hecke looked impressive during his workout today before Brighton’s matchup with Eddie Howe’s seventh-place squad at St. James’ Park.
Just before the Tottenham game, Van Hecke told ESPNnl, “We have to wait and see how the rehabilitation goes, but in principle it is six weeks.” “I think I’m a little ahead of schedule. I’m hoping it goes a little more quickly so I can get back in sooner. Although it’s unfortunate and disappointing that I had to get hurt at this moment, accidents never happen when you least expect them to.
“You must develop coping mechanisms. I’ll make sure to return as quickly as I can.”
Since Brighton also lost centre-back Adam Webster to injury during the first half of the Tottenham match, the images of Van Hecke training ahead of schedule are a huge help.
Due to his apparent hamstring issue, Webster, who had been playing since Van Hecke was injured, walked out, leaving head coach Fabian Hurzeler without defensive cover.
As the Ivorian heals from a “minor injury,” Brighton will also expect to have forward Simon Adingra available. After making a late substitute appearance against Tottenham, Brajan Gruda, Albion’s £25 million summer acquisition, may also be ready to start for the first time.
After missing 12 months due to a knee injury he suffered at Manchester City last season, midfielder Solly March is also getting closer to making a comeback. James Milner (hamstring) is still doubtful, and midfielder Matt O’Riley and striker Joao Pedro (ankle) are both sidelined.
