Newcastle United's exit from Europe at the hands of AC Milan on Wednesday night was compounded by injury concerns for Anthony Gordon and Kieran Trippier.
A 2-1 defeat to Milan at St James' Park ended the Magpies' Champions League journey and denied them a place in the knockout stages of the Europa League after finishing bottom of Group F.
Both Trippier & Gordon started the game and watched as Joelinton put United in front on 33 minutes. Christian Pulisic equalise and the pair were forced to withdraw not long after on the hour-mark.
Indeed, they were left helpless as Samuel Chukwueze netted an 84th minute winner. The focus now turns back to the Premier League with Fulham the visitors to Tyneside on Saturday before the Carabao Cup quarter-final trip to Chelsea on Tuesday.
The concern surrounding Gordon and Trippier comes at a time when Newcastle's injury situation was just beginning to ease slightly following the return of Callum Wilson, Sean Longstaff and Dan Burn.
Eddie Howe is hoping more players can make their respective comebacks in the coming weeks as his squad battle the relentless fixture schedule.
Here, NewcastleWorld takes you through Newcastle's absentee list and when each player could return:
1. Nick Pope - shoulder
Pope dislocated his shoulder in the Premier League win over Man Utd but is recovering ahead of schedule. Possible return date: Mid to late March 2024.
2. Sandro Tonali - banned
Tonali is suspended from football until August 2024 following an investigation into illegal betting activity. Possible return date: August 2024.
3. Joelinton - thigh
Joelinton underwent thigh surgery last month and won't return until May at the earliest. Possible return date: May 2024.
4. Matt Targett - hamstring
Targett underwent hamstring surgery early December. Could return to training in the next couple of weeks. Possible return date: Wolves (H) 02/03.