Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has been sharing his thoughts ahead of Saturday's Premier League clash against Brighton at St James' Park (3 PM BST), and there's plenty for Magpies fans to get excited about.

Anthony Gordon's fitness boost
The winger, who has missed the last two matches with a hip issue, could be back in action. "He did part of a session on Wednesday. It was great to see him back on the pitch," Howe revealed. "He's a player of huge quality and one we've missed. We'll make an assessment closer to the game after seeing how he gets through today."

Yoane Wissa's return to form
Howe addressed comments from striker Yoane Wissa, who admitted he rushed back from an early-season injury. "His only issue has been the injury he suffered in September and that he hadn't trained before then. When he returned, he wasn't physically able to deliver the quality he traditionally has in the Premier League," Howe explained. "There's no doubting his quality, but can we get him in the right condition to deliver his best before the end of the season? That's been the challenge."

The boss noted a positive shift: "Since we've returned to full-team training, we've seen a big lift in his performances. Getting him fit with small numbers in training is tough. As long as he continues that upward trajectory, we'll see the very best of him in the future."

Constructive ownership meetings
On this week's meetings with the club's owners and hierarchy, Howe was upbeat. "It was constructive—good meetings. They clearly care so much about the club, and the long-term planning at many levels shows there are exciting times ahead, regardless of what happens short term. The long-term vision is clearly there."

When asked if he felt personal support, Howe added: "Yes—no change in terms of support, infrastructure, or how people are working. I was pleased by the level of support given to me."

With a fit-again Gordon and a reinvigorated Wissa, Newcastle are gearing up for a crucial home fixture. The Magpies will be hoping to channel that positive energy into three points against a tough Brighton side.