The Magpies are already in big trouble with injuries and the last thing they need is an injury to Yoane Wissa
Newcastle United's Lewis Miley, Jacob Ramsey, Yoane Wissa and Joe Willock
Newcastle United's Lewis Miley, Jacob Ramsey, Yoane Wissa and Joe Willock (Image: Newcastle United via Getty Image)
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Yoane Wissa will be assessed ahead of Newcastle United's journey to Baku for the Champions League play-offs against Qarabag.
The £55m signing from Brentford was absent during the 3-1 victory over Aston Villa on FA Cup fourth round night. But head coach Eddie Howe is not concerned about any long-term issues.
When asked for an update on Wissa, Howe - who also rested Sven Botman at Villa Park - said: "It's just a little knock for Yoane in training yesterday. I don't think it's serious and don't think he will be away too long. He may miss a couple of games, let's wait and see."
That leaves Wissa in the doubtful category for the Qarabag clash but with William Osula pushing for game-time and other options with Anthony Gordon able to play through the middle, Howe won't rush the DR Congo man back.
Wissa missed a large chunk of the season due to a knee injury picked up playing for his country against Senegal last September.
Botman, meanwhile, is also a doubt for the Qarabag clash although again Howe doesn't think he has a serious concern.
“Sven's feeling is back from the game against Tottenham," Howe revealed. "We don't think it's a serious injury. We certainly hope he won't be out for any period of time. It was the right decision not to let him travel today."
Howe also offered news on Bruno Guimaraes' hamstring in the direct aftermath of the excellent win in the second city. He reflected: "Bruno will be back around the next international break.
"The March international break that he will be back. He has a period of time now where he will have to work hard on his hamstring to make sure he is fully fit but we are looking at that period of time."
Howe will run fresh checks on Joelinton and Tino Livramento at the start of the week. Speaking on Joelinton, Howe said on Friday: "Joelinton is doing really well. I don't think he'll make this game, but it can't be too far beyond this game. He's desperate to be involved."
Lewis Miley could also return for the Qarabag clash as Howe looks to get a couple of fitness boosts.
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