Eddie Howe confirms fresh Newcastle United injury as duo dropped for Bournemouth win

Eddie Howe has revealed why Elliot Anderson, Loris Karius and Ryan Fraser missed Newcastle United’s Carabao Cup win against Bournemouth.

The trio were among eight players left out of the matchday squad as the Magpies won 2-1 to seal their progression into the last eight of the competition.

“Elliot is working back to fitness,” Howe confirmed. “He’s had a couple of niggles behind the scenes so he’s doing some fitness work at the moment to make sure he’s fully fit.

On Karius and Fraser, Howe continued: “The other two guys were fine.”

Karius is yet to make a competitive appearance for United, although did impress in the Magpies’ 5-0 win over Saudi Pro League champions Al-Hilal a fortnight ago.

The German signed a short-term at Newcastle in September, which is set to expire next month. Asked about his future earlier this week, Howe said: “I don’t believe anything further has happened on his contract, I think that’s something we’re assessing and in discussions with.”

Meanwhile, Fraser, who is reportedly attracting interest from clubs down south, hasn’t played competitively since October.

Alexander Isak (thigh), Paul Dummett (back) and Emil Krafth (ACL) missed the Bournemouth game through injury, while Jamal Lewis also wasn’t involved.