Newcastle United's defeat to Chelsea on Monday night was made worse by some fresh injury concerns.
When the team news landed an hour before kick-off at Stamford Bridge, it was revealed Harvey Barnes was missing from the squad with a hamstring injury having only just returned from four months out with a toe/ foot problem.
And 36 minutes into the match, Anthony Gordon was forced off with a knee injury on the week he was expected to receive his first England call-up.
Reflecting on Gordon's injury, Howe said: "He's in a bit of pain, it's unclear what the injury is. We're not sure what the diagnosis is with Anthony, he's got a knee problem. It's just a pain he felt come on so there was no moment or incident that it happened, it was just gradual.
"He's in a bit of pain so we fear it's not looking too good but it's very early days. That was obviously a huge moment in the game to lose him as well because he's been so good for us this year and so consistent in his performances so it's another psychological blow.
"It's unclear what the injury is which can always add a more negative feeling because we want clarity. Hopefully, we can give him that in the next couple of days and we can get him seen to. Of course, he'll be disappointed to go off."
Newcastle welcomed back Matt Targett back against Chelsea following four months out with a hamstring injury but the absentee list is beginning to increase once again.
Here's Newcastle United's absentee list in full and when each player could return:
1. Fabian Schar - hamstring
Schar felt tightness in his hamstring against Sheffield United, which forced him to withdraw at half-time. Possible return date: Burnley (A) 04/05.
2. Sven Botman - ACL
The Dutchman has been ruled out for six to nine months after undergoing surgery on his knee. Possible return date: December 2024.
3. Matt Targett - Achilles
Targett is sidelined for the rest of the season with an Achilles issue having only just returned from four months out. Possible return date: 2024-25 season.
4. Jamaal Lascelles - ACL
Lascelles sustained an ACL injury against West Ham and will be sidelined for six to nine months. Possible return date: December 2024.