Newcastle United are dealing with several injury concerns ahead of their Premier League opener against Liverpool.
Newcastle United are dealing with several injury concerns ahead of their Premier League opener against Liverpool on August 23.
Anthony Elanga avoided a serious injury after being stretchered off during Newcastle’s pre-season win over Valencia on Saturday. The winger suffered a heavy challenge from Valencia defender Jose Gaya, who was shown a straight red card.
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Elanga was forced off in the first half after receiving a reckless challenge from Valencia left-back Jose Gaya, whose boot caught the Newcastle winger high on his right leg. Gaya was shown a straight red card for the tackle.
The Sweden international was visibly in pain as his Newcastle teammates, led by striker William Osula, confronted Gaya. New head coach Matthias Jaissle also reacted angrily, shouting at the assistant referee and fourth official.
After receiving treatment on the pitch at Mestalla, Elanga was eventually taken off on a stretcher. When asked about the challenge, Jaissle said: “The only thing I can say is that it seems to be not bad, and we hope it’s true that Anthony can start again next week.
“Of course I was in fear, definitely. But now I am more relaxed because the medical department is showing a green light for it. It was a really tough (challenge), it was not expected. Fouls are part of the game — that was really harsh.”
Fabian Schar and Lewis Miley also missed the game, while Lewis Hall is managing a minor injury. Tino Livramento remains sidelined with a calf problem, while Dan Burn is yet to join the squad after representing England at the World Cup.
Newcastle have also opened talks with Benfica over right-back Amar Dedic, according to talkSPORT. The Bosnia international previously worked with new Newcastle head coach Matthias Jaissle at RB Salzburg.
The Magpies are keen to strengthen at right-back, with Livramento yet to feature in pre-season and Emil Krafth and Kieran Trippier having left the club.
With Newcastle United short of options in the position, Miley is likely to be forced to start at right-back against Liverpool in their opening game of the season.