Albion boss Chris Hughton has defended goal hero Tomer Hemed against accusations of a stamp in the victory over Newcastle.

The TV cameras caught Hemed treading on Newcastle defender DeAndre Yedlin during the 1-0 win at the Amex.

Hughton said: "I have seen it, I was showed it. My absolute impression was that there was no intention, particularly knowing the player as I do."

Hemed also protested his innocence. The Israeli striker said: "I think it was by accident. I didn't try to do anything. If I hurt him I am sorry."

Albion will be anxious to avoid any retrospective action by the FA, as Hemed is their only fit striker. Glenn Murray was ruled out of the squad by a persistent ankle injury.

Hughton told The Argus: "I was hoping he (Murray) was going to be available for this game. It is still the problem he had at Leicester with his ankle. He is just not quite there yet. I am hoping he will be available for the Arsenal game (on Sunday), but I can't guarantee it."

Hemed, on target in the last home match against West Brom, hooked in a Pascal Gross free-kick headed back across goal by Dale Stephens to earn Albion a second successive victory at the Amex, which has lifted them to 13th in the Premier League table.

Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez complained about a "very clear foul" by Bruno on Chancel Mbemba and said the goal should have been disallowed.

Hughton retorted: "What you saw is what you see in every game. It certainly wasn't a foul."