Leicester City without four first-team players for Newcastle United clash

Leicester City are set to be without four first-team players for the trip to Newcastle United.

The Magpies welcome Brendan Rodgers’ side to St James’ Park this afternoon looking for a fifth straight home win to increase their survival hopes.

Eddie Howe will check on the fitness of Ryan Fraser and Joe Willock ahead of kick-off, while Kieran Trippier and Callum Wilson remain out.

The Foxes too will be without some key players - including striker Jamie Vardy.

The 35-year-old has been sidelined for over a month with a knee problem but is aiming to be back soon after a number of injections.

Rodgers said on Wednesday: “That (final injection) was last night. We’ll see over the course of the next week what effect that brings.

“Hopefully it can be positive news for us.”

Joining Vardy in the treatment room are Ryan Bertrand, Wilfred Ndidi and Danny Ward - also ruled out with knee problems.

Bertrand and Ward are fighting to be fit again this season, while Ndidi will miss the remainder of the campaign.

“Wilfred Ndidi unfortunately will be out for the season, which is a shame for us,” Rodgers confirmed.

“He’s been a brilliant player for me in my time here. He’s picked up a nasty injury and he has had to have surgery. He’ll recover through until June.”

One player who could return is former Magpies transfer target Boubakary Soumare. The midfielder has missed the last four games with a muscular injury.