Eddie Howe reveals Jonjo Shelvey blow as Newcastle United boss delivers injury update

Eddie Howe has revealed Jonjo Shelvey suffered a hamstring injury during Newcastle United’s 3-2 pre-season defeat to Benfica.

The Magpies midfielder limped off on 75 minutes and was replaced by Matty Longstaff with the scoreline tied at 2-2.

Little over seven minutes later, United were reduced to 10 men after Joelinton was red carded for a second bookable offence.

Henrique Araujo scored the winner in the 89th minute as Howe’s side missed out on lifting the Eusebio Cup.

Howe confirmed Shelvey’s issue after the game at the Estadio da Luz

“Jonjo, it looks like a hamstring problem,” the 45-year-old said. “I don’t know any more than that at the moment.

“Really disappointing, he’s worked so hard to keep himself fit and be in a good place physically. Any injury would be a blow to him and for us, so fingers crossed it’s not bad.”

Martin Dubravka’s absence for the second game running has prompted speculation over his future, heightened by Nick Pope’s arrival.

Howe, who was also asked about Federico Fernandez, Jamal Lewis, Ryan Fraser and Javier Manquillo, revealed the Slovakian was left out due to a sprained wrist.

He said: “Martin’s got a sprained wrist from fielding a ball at close range. We don’t think it’s too serious.

“The others, I think you know about.

“Fede Fernandez and Jamal Lewis, they’re working their way back to fitness. Fraser was missing with a family issue.

“We still haven’t seen Manquillo. We’re due to see him when we return to England.”