Newcastle United host Premier League champions Manchester City at St James’ Park as they look to bounce back from last weekend’s defeat at Fulham.
And the Magpies may have to do it without last season’s top goalscorer Alexander Isak. The Sweden international has been nursing a toe injury in recent weeks, which has limited his training time.
The issue was first sustained in the 2-1 win at Wolves with an injection required in order for him to start against Fulham. As of Friday morning, Isak hadn’t trained with his teammates.
United boss Eddie Howe explained: “He’s had scans and lots of tests. The injury has been diagnosed fine – it sounds worse than it is, but he’s got a broken toe. But it’s one that can be managed and played with, provided he can tolerate the pain levels, and that will have no long-term risks.
“He had an injection to numb the pain, and that was fine until the injection wore off. Let’s see how he is.”
Man City also have injury problems of their own - Rodri being the latest. Pep Guardiola confirmed on Friday that his midfielder will miss the remainder of the campaign with an ACL injury.
"He had surgery this morning, ACL and some meniscus," Guardiola said on Friday. “Next season he will be here. This season is over [for him]. It is what it is
"Unfortunately, we got the worst [news] but it is what it is at this level. Sometimes, unfortunately, it happens. We are just there to support him and [help him make a] good recovery, step by step, and move forward.”

1. Sven Botman - out
Botman is sidelined until December because of an ACL injury. | Getty Images

2. Jamaal Lascelles - out
Lascelles too is recovering from an ACL injury and is a couple of weeks behind Botman. | Getty Images

3. Callum Wilson - out
The Magpies’ No.9 is yet to feature this season because of a hamstring injury. Is due back after the October international break. | Getty Images

4. Lewis Miley - out
Miley is recovering from a metatarsal injury. Howe said last week the midfielder is still a “long way off” from returning. | Getty Images