'Really sad' - Newcastle United double injury blow as key man visits specialist ahead of Leicester City clash

Newcastle host the Foxes at St James’ Park on Saturday afternoon (kick-off 3pm) and they will be without Callum Wilson after the striker picked up a fresh hamstring issue in the 4-2 defeat at Brentford.

The 32-year-old’s latest setback, which comes just four games after he returned from four months out with a back problem, will keep him out for eight weeks. He ends 2024 having made just two starts.

Howe said: “Really feel for Callum because we see the work, the dedication and professionalism that he's shown, not just in his recovery from this injury but throughout his career. For me, he is an inspirational player, I think when you are in these moments for him you have to understand how difficult this season has been for him. He's had a couple of setbacks when it looks like he's been so close to training and playing regularly and building that resilience that his body needs to perform at this level.

“He has not cut corners, he's gone through a rigorous process to try and keep himself fit and I'm talking about him taking himself away from his family for long periods of time dedicating himself to no distractions and seeking the best specialist opinions that he sometimes he'd sourced himself so when you go to that level of dedication to give yourself the best chance to perform and when you see him not get the result this time, I feel really sad for him.

“I back him to come back again and have the mental resilience he is going to need to fight again and fight hard. We know his qualities and we're desperate to see him play again in a Newcastle shirt and score goals.”

Nick Pope is also likely to miss the visit of Leicester because of a knee issue. It was just over 12 months ago the goalkeeper dislocated his shoulder and missed the majority of the 2023-24 campaign.

The former Burnley man had started every Premier League game this season. Martin Dubravka is once again set to deputise with summer signing Odysseas Vlachodimos promoted to the bench.

Howe said: “He's carried a knee injury this week. Initially we thought it was nothing, so I think he's seeking some specialist opinion today and then we'll see if he's available for tomorrow.”

United remain without Sven Botman, who will step up his recovery from an ACL by appearing for the under-21s on Monday night, Jamaal Lascelles and Emil Krafth.

However, Joe Willock is expected to return to the squad after the hamstring issue that forced him to sit out against Brentford turned out not to be serious.