Newcastle United star a 'major doubt' for upcoming matches after missing training ahead of Chelsea

Kieran Trippier of Newcastle United applauds the fans as he leaves the field after picking up a injury after receiving medical treatment during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Wolverhampton Wanderers at St. James Park on March 02, 2024 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Newcastle United star Kieran Trippier will miss the upcoming matches against Chelsea and Manchester City with a calf issue.

The 33-year-old was forced off in the second half of the Magpies' 3-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday afternoon with Eddie Howe admitting afterward his injury was a concern.

Just over 24 hours later, Trippier spoke at the North East Football Writers' Awards Dinner - where he was crowned Player of the Year - and said: "I just felt something in my calf and I don't want to take any risks or anything.

"I had a good chat with the manager but I won't know anything until [Monday]. My calf is feeling good but you know scan results can say anything, but most importantly I'm feeling positive."

Those scan results have arrived, according to the Mail Online, with Tripper ruled out of the next two matches away to Chelsea in the Premier League on Monday and the FA Cup quarter-final tie at Manchester City on Saturday, March 16. Sky Sports News added that Trippier also missed training on Wednesday morning.

Trippier is also a major doubt for England's friendlies against Brazil and Belgium later this month. There's a chance the former Tottenham Hotspur man could return for West Ham United's visit to St James' Park on Saturday, March 30.

In the meantime, £32million summer signing Tino Livramento will deputise at right-back having played most of his Newcastle career so far at left-back. The 21-year-old scored his first United goal after coming on for Trippier at the weekend.