Newcastle United were handed another injury boost during their FA Cup fifth round victory at Blackburn Rovers on Tuesday night.
Eddie Howe's men needed penalties to see off the Championship side after Sammie Szmodics cancelled out Anthony Gordon's opener. Goalkeeper Martin Dubravka emerged as the hero in the shootout, diving to deny both Szmodics and Dominic Hyam as United won 4-3.
During extra-time, Elliot Anderson was introduced from the bench for his first appearance in October. The Geordie midfielder has been sidelined because of a stress fracture in his back and marked his return by scoring in the shootout.
"It's worth noting how much I trust him because I was bringing him on the pitch to take a penalty," said Howe. "I took Lewy off and put Elliot on because I trust him in the big moments.
"He's technically very good, he's a specialist set-piece taker, penalty taker but he hasn't played, he hasn't really trained although he's worked incredibly hard on his rehab and he looks really fit so I'm really pleased with him but he's coming in cold. Big credit for him for how he took his penalty."
The visit to Blackburn also saw Joe Willock make his first start since November, while Alexander Isak got another 60 minutes under his belt having recently returned from a groin issue.
But Newcastle still remain without some key players. Here's Newcastle United's absentee list in full and when each player could return:
1. Fabian Schar - hamstring
Schar felt tightness in his hamstring against Sheffield United, which forced him to withdraw at half-time. Possible return date: Burnley (A) 04/05. | Getty Images
2. Sven Botman - ACL
The Dutchman has been ruled out for six to nine months after undergoing surgery on his knee. Possible return date: December 2024. | Getty Images
3. Matt Targett - Achilles
Targett is sidelined for the rest of the season with an Achilles issue having only just returned from four months out. Possible return date: 2024-25 season. | Getty Images
4. Jamaal Lascelles - ACL
Lascelles sustained an ACL injury against West Ham and will be sidelined for six to nine months. Possible return date: December 2024. | AFP via Getty Images