Jonjo Shelvey injury update as Newcastle United ‘weigh up’ midfielder move

Eddie Howe has provided a positive update on Jonjo Shelvey’s recovery from injury.

The Newcastle United midfielder will miss the first half of the 2022-23 Premier League campaign after injuring his calf against Benfica in pre-season.

Following a scan after the opening day win over Nottingham Forest, it was revealed the 30-year-old would be sidelined for 12 weeks - taking him into November.

However, with the top-flight season pausing for the World Cup, Shelvey won’t return until the Boxing Day trip to Leicester City at the earliest.

Asked for an update on Shelvey’s recovery, Howe said: “He’s doing well, I’m pleased with his progress.

“Jonjo is absolutely determined to come back as quickly as possible, which is great for us. He’s pushing himself within the safe boundaries we’ve given him.

“Naturally, he’s very keen to return. Football is Jonjo’s life, training is his life.”

Reports earlier in the week claimed Newcastle are keeping tabs on Conor Gallagher’s situation at Chelsea and are interested in a potential loan deal.

Given Shelvey’s absence, United are a body light in midfield with Elliot Anderson and Sean Longstaff the only back up options to Bruno Guimaraes, Joe Willock and Jonjo Shelvey.

But following the £58million club record of Alexander Isak from Real Sociedad, Howe is unsure what’s next in terms of the transfer market.

“I don’t know if we can add any player, let alone nail down a position,” Howe said. “Like I said, I need to sit down and have a chat and see what we can do next.”