Newcastle United have been hit with an injury less than an hour before their Champions League fixture with Athletic Club gets underway.
After being comfortably defeated 3-1 by West Ham United in a disastrous defeat on Sunday, Newcastle United are looking to bounce back as they return to Champions League action at St. James’ Park.
La Liga outfit Athletic Club are the visitors, with Eddie Howe’s side having the opportunity to take a huge step towards qualification for the knockout stages if they pick up a third successive victory.
Some fans had called for wholesale changes from the manager after Sunday’s shocking display, with Dan Burn, Joelinton and Nick Pope all in the firing line.
Yet, Howe has only made two changes and gone with as strong a side as possible for the European fixture.
Kieran Trippier returns from a bout of illness, replacing Emil Krafth, while Harvey Barnes has come in for Jacob Murphy.
Bruno Guimaraes starts despite suffering from illness himself in the week, but there has been a late casualty in William Osula.
William Osula holds a wash bag while arriving at St. James' Park.
Photo by Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images
Will Osula ruled out of Newcastle United vs Athletic Club
Striker Osula has been waiting for a chance after a bright start to the season, but they have been few and far between, especially from the start.
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The Dane was named on the bench for Wednesday night’s match, but Newcastle announced at 7:20pm, 40 minutes ahead of kick-off, that he would have to withdraw.
🤕 Will Osula will no longer be on the bench this evening due to discomfort in his ankle. He will be assessed further in the coming days.
Hope to see you back soon, Will. pic.twitter.com/bdZhvQUkHB
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) November 5, 2025
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Taking to X, the club said in an official statement: “Will Osula will no longer be on the bench this evening due to discomfort in his ankle. He will be assessed further in the coming days.
“Hope to see you back soon, Will.”
Howe may offer an update on Osula’s condition after the match.