Newcastle United star major doubt v Liverpool & 'no update' on £63m duo

Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has provided an injury update ahead of the New Year's Day trip to Liverpool (kick-off 8pm).

Jamaal Lascelles picked up an injury in the first half of the Magpies' 1-0 defeat to Luton Town on Saturday, which forced him to miss the Boxing Day loss at home to Nottingham Forest.

United's captain is a doubt for the visit to Anfield but Howe hopes to have him back available soon.

"Jamaal, we don't think his injury is serious," said the Magpies' head coach. "We hope we can get him back pretty soon. Let's wait and see, fingers crossed."

Howe admitted he doesn't see "anyone coming back in the short term" after being asked about Harvey Barnes and Joe Willock.

He said: Willock and Barnes continue to work hard behind the scenes from their respective injuries so no immediate update on them."

Barnes hasn't featured since the 8-0 win at Sheffield United in September with a foot problem. The £38million summer signing was due to return this month but suffered a setback.

It is hoped the winger can return in January and therefore rule out the possibility of requiring surgery.

Willock, meanwhile, made six appearances between October and November after spending five months out with a hamstring and then an Achilles problem before suffering a recurrence of the latter.