‘He’s edging closer’ - Eddie Howe provides Newcastle United injury update after triple injury scare

Eddie Howe has provided an injury update on the three Newcastle United players who went off injured at Leeds United.

Joelinton (groin), Paul Dummett (fatigue) and Jamaal Lascelles (hamstring) all picked up injuries in the 1-0 victory at Elland Road on Saturday afternoon.

The trio did travel to Saudi Arabia for the club’s mid-season training camp, however Howe revealed none of them have trained.

The Magpies play a behind closed doors friendly with Saudi Pro League leaders Al-Ittihad before flying back to the UK on Saturday.

Howe on Lascelles, Joelinton and Dummettt

Howe told NUFCTV: “The three who came off (at Leeds) haven’t trained and we don’t expect them to immediately.

“I’m not sure of the extent of the injuries. I think it’s one of those difficult ones to judge because we may need scans to determine that.

“And we haven’t had the luxury of doing that yet. “

Federico Fernandez ‘edging closer’

Meanwhile, Howe confirmed Federico Fernandez is edging closer to a return, but warned against rushing him back.

The Argentine injured his thigh in December - last featuring in the closing stages of the 1-0 win over Burnley at St James’ Park.

“He’s edging closer to returning to the group,” Howe said.

“He’s not quite there yet so this is a delicate stage with him. We want him back as quickly as possible but we don’t want to push him to where he has a setback.

“We’ve got to try and manage the next bit right.”