Depleted and fatigued, it’s clear Newcastle United need a rest from their punishing schedule but time doesn’t allow.
Over the last week, the Magpies’ squad has taken a major hit and with three fresh injury blows and, of course, the news of Sandro Tonali’s 10-month suspension.
After the 4-0 victory over Crystal Palace last weekend, Elliot Anderson picked up a back injury, which will keep him sidelined for the next eight weeks.
And against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League three days later, Newcastle lost Alexander Isak to a recurring thigh issue and Jacob Murphy to a dislocated shoulder.
In addition to the new injuries and Tonali’s lengthy ban, Newcastle are also without Harvey Barnes (foot) until around late December, while Sven Botman (knee) and Lewis Miley (glandular fever) are getting closer but still unavailable.
The lack of attacking options meant Magpies head coach Eddie Howe made just one substitution during Saturday’s 2-2 draw away to Wolverhampton Wanderers.
But the games don’t stop. On Wednesday night, Newcastle head to Old Trafford to take on Manchester United in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup.
Will Howe get any players back from the treatment room? NewcastleWorld takes a look at the current injury list & each player’s likely return date:
1. Sandro Tonali - August 2024
Tonali has been handed a 10 month ban from football following an investigation into illegal betting activity by the Italian Football Federation. | Getty Images
2. Alexander Isak - Chelsea (H) - 25/11
The Swede was forced off just 14 minutes in v Dortmund after suffering a recurrence of his groin problem. Isak has undergone a scan and won’t return before the November international break at the earliest. | AFP via Getty Images
3. Jacob Murphy - February 2024
Murphy is set to undergo shoulder surgery which will likely see him sidelined for three months. | Getty Images
4. Sven Botman - N/A
Botman has missed the last eight matches with a knee issue. Currently, the Dutchman has no return date as Newcastle await further clarity on his injury. | AFP via Getty Images