Newcastle United could be without as many as 12 senior players for Saturday afternoon’s Premier League clash at home to Tottenham Hotspur (kick-off 12:30pm).
Eddie Howe’s side beat Fulham 1-0 at the weekend courtesy of Bruno Guimaraes’ 81st minute winner, however in the same game suffered a fresh injury concern.
Joe Willock, who has only recently returned from three months out with an Achillies problem, is still suffering from the same issue hence why he was forced off in the 40th minute at Craven Cottage.
“Joe is still feeling his Achilles,” Howe told NewcastleWorld. “He’s been feeling this problem for a long time. We hoped that he would steadily improve but today was a down day where he didn’t look right and wasn’t able to continue.
“He wasn’t particularly in huge pain but it was enough to mean he wasn’t at his very best.”
Newcastle have been put in a position where they must decide whether to manage Willock’s fitness until the end of the campaign or indeed end it now.
The Magpies are chasing European qualification but only have a select group of players available. They are desperate to some key stars back, with the likes of Joelinton, Nick Pope, Callum Wilson, Kieran Trippier, Miguel Almiron and Tino Livramento currently sidelined.
Here’s Newcastle United’s injury list in full and when each player could return to action:
5. Lewis Miley - back
The 17-year-old has been sidelined with a back injury since the March international break and won't play again this campaign. Possible return date: 2024-25 season. | Getty Images
6. Joe Willock - Achillies
Newcastle have taken the decision to rest Willock for the remainder of the campaign as he overcomes an ongoing Achilles issue. Possible return date: 2024-25 season. | Getty Images
7. Sandro Tonali - banned
Tonali is suspended from football until August following an investigation into illegal betting activity. Possible return date: August 2024. | Getty Images
8. Miguel Almiron - knee
Howe says Almiron should be "there or thereabouts" for Burnley after missing the last month with a knee injury. Possible return date: Burnley (A) 04/05 | Getty Images