Referee John Brooks checks on Newcastle United's Sven Botman
Referee John Brooks checks on Newcastle United's Sven Botman
Newcastle United will head to Arsenal this weekend with several injury issues hanging over the squad as Eddie Howe may again have to switch tactics according to the players available.
The United head coach was saw Kieran Trippier ruled out for last weekend's win over Chelsea, while Dutch defender Sven Botman's knee remains a concern despite a return to the first team against the Blues. Arsenal have big issues of their own for the game on Sunday, with up to nine players currently ruled out or doubtful.
The winners will claim second place going into the final day of the season, and with Champions League qualification to secure, the stakes are high. Here's the latest Newcastle United injury situation and when we might expect the absent stars to return.
Kieran Trippier
Injury: Calf
The former England defender missed the win over Chelsea with a calf injury and may not play again this season, with only two games remaining. United reverted to a back five in his absence, with Jacob Murphy at right wing-back, and could stick with the same system at the Emirates should Trippier be ruled out.
What Howe said: "We would love to get them back quick and able to play a part. I have no idea at this moment in time, I don't know if that is possible."
Potential return date: Unknown
Sven Botman
Injury: Knee
The Dutch defender has not had the best of luck with injuries in the last year but made his first start since February against Chelsea after recovering from minor knee surgery. He lasted almost an hour, but Howe reported Botman had his knee iced at half-time. He will be monitored this week before a decision is made for Arsenal
What Howe said: "I think he was icing a problem at half-time, so we hope he’s OK."
Potential return date: Arsenal (May 18) or Everton (May 25)
Joelinton
Injury: Knee
The Brazilian was a St James' Park last weekend but only in a watching capacity as he recovers from a knee injury. There is a slim chance he could yet make a return before the season ends, but it's more likely that he will return for pre-season.
What Howe said: "The likelihood is it'll be difficult to play again this season. I think, but with Joe, we could never rule him out. I think he's so motivated to try and come back but he had discomfort in his knee last week, just before the game, so he's sort of got a specialist's opinion. That opinion was that it was nothing serious but he needed a period of rest. We'll wait and see if we can get him back before the end of the season - but the answer is probably not.
Potential return date: Pre-season
Joe Willock
Injury: Hamstring
The former Arsenal midfielder's bad luck with injuries continues, with the latest setback coming as a major blow just as he was getting a run in the side due to Joelinton's absence. With two games left, a return may be too much to ask, but Eddie Howe has not yet ruled him out.
What Howe said: "We don't think they are big injuries. But there is such a short time left of the season."
Potential return date: Unknown
Lewis Hall
Injury: Foot
The left-back had been enjoying an excellent season before a foot injury ended his campaign in February. Tino Livramento has thankfully performed well out of position in his absence, but while the England defender is making good progress, it will be pre-season before we see him in action again
What Jason Tindall said: "He's doing great. I don't think we will see him play again this season if we are being honest. But he's recovering well and he is on the right road to recovery. We will certainly see him back again next season."
Potential return date: Pre-season
Matt Targett
Injury: Hamstring
United are not having the best of luck with full-backs, with Targett currently missing from the squad with a hamstring injury.
What Howe said: "We also lost Matt Targett this week to a slight hamstring problem. Again nothing serious but maybe enough to end his season."
Potential return date: Pre-season