Excitement is building around the city with Newcastle United’s first cup final in 24 years just around the corner.
The Magpies go up against Premier League rivals Manchester United at Wembley on Sunday with a first trophy since 1969 at stake.
Eddie Howe is eager to get his preparations absolutely right, and one small change made to his schedule this week is the weekly meeting with the media.
Instead of addressing the press on a Friday to preview the weekend’s game, Howe carried out his duties yesterday alongside Kieran Trippier, Dan Burn and Sean Longstaff.
One topic high on the agenda was injuries and suspensions following Nick Pope’s red card in the 2-0 loss against Liverpool last Saturday.
Indeed, Pope is among five Magpies players ruled out against the Red Devils, while another is “touch and go”. Here is Newcastle’s current injury list and expected return dates.
1. Nick Pope - suspended
Newcastle decided against appealing Pope’s red card v Liverpool, meaning he’ll serve his one-match against Man United in the Carabao Cup final. Return date: Manchester City (A) 04/03.
2. Emil Krafth - ACL
Krafth sustained an ACL injury during the 2-1 Carabao Cup win at Tranmere Rovers in August but isn’t expected to return until next season. Return date: 2023/23 campaign.
3. Bruno Guimaraes - available
Guimaraes has missed the last three Premier League games through suspension - and United failed to win. A huge boost that the Brazilian is back for Wembley. Return date: Manchester United (N) 26/02.
4. Matty Longstaff - ACL
Longstaff picked up a serious knee injury on Boxing Day whilst on loan at Colchester United and won’t return until after the summer when his United contract is due to expire. Return date: 2023/24 campaign.