Eddie Howe explains how big Newcastle United injury blow will impact summer transfer plans

Eddie Howe has backed his Newcastle United midfield to cope without the injured Jonjo Shelvey.

The Magpies head coach confirmed the 30-year-old is set to spend the next 12 weeks on the sidelines after undergoing surgery on his hamstring.

The World Cup break in November will see Shelvey miss the first half of the 2022-23 campaign before, hopefully, returning for the Boxing Day trip to Leicester City.

Howe, as it stands, feels he has enough cover in the sitting midfield role without needing to dip into the summer transfer window.

That said, the 44-year-old admitted that could change if Newcastle lose another midfielder to injury.

“I feel we have enough to cover his absence currently but you know in football, it can change very quickly,” Howe said.

“I wouldn’t say it was our main focus but it’s something in the back of our minds if we need to do something then we have the capability of doing something in that position.

“But we have other positions that are more of a priority currently.”

Howe has backed Bruno Guimaraes and Sean Longstaff to fill the void, while he also has Joelinton and Joe Willock at his disposal.

“Losing Jonjo is a big blow, he’s been a huge player for us in the last few seasons,” Howe added. “He brings unique qualities in that midfield role.

“Bruno played in that position on Saturday and did very well and we do have other players.

“Sean’s played the position during pre-season and again done very well. He used the ball excellently.

“We have a couple of options but we’re going to miss Jonjo.”