Fresh Newcastle United injury confirmed - and he’s in a race to return before the World Cup

Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe has confirmed that Matt Ritchie has picked up a calf problem. The 33-year-old is understood to have sustained the injury during the recent international break.

Ritchie wasn’t named in the matchday squads for the back-to-back wins against Fulham and Brentford. Howe, however, wasn’t asked about the winger’s absence until speaking to the media ahead of Sunday’s Premier League at Manchester United.

The Magpies head coach revealed Ritchie is “doing well” but is unsure if he will return before the World Cup break next month.

Howe said: “Matt has picked up a calf problem. We don’t know whether he’ll be back before the World Cup but he’s doing well.”

Ritchie’s only two appearances this season came in the Carabao Cup win at Tranmere Rovers and a brief cameo against Wolverhampton Wanderers.

While Ritchie isn’t necessarily a starter, or a player often brought off the bench, Howe has consistently spoken about Ritchie’s leadership in the dressing. Indeed, the pair previously worked together at Bournemouth.

Speaking last season, Howe said on Ritchie: “What a personality and character he is.

“There’s so many unsung heroes in the group this season who’ve been, behind the scenes, so supportive of the lads that are playing, have been incredible in training, have set the culture for me.

“It’s so powerful when it’s the guys who aren’t playing regularly because they really control the mentality of the group. And Matty’s played his part.

“He showed his experience and managed that last part of the game for us very, very well. He’s been integral to our success.”