Eddie Howe Faces Injury Concerns Ahead of Liverpool Clash
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe is dealing with a lengthy injury list as his team prepares to face Liverpool at Anfield on Monday. The Magpies have suffered four defeats in their last five Premier League matches, with injuries piling up and the demanding schedule exacerbating their problems.
After a disappointing 3-1 home loss to Nottingham Forest, Newcastle now faces the challenge of improving their poor away record, having only accumulated five points from nine games on the road.
Although Howe cannot expect a sudden influx of players returning from injury for the Liverpool game, he remains hopeful that captain Jamaal Lascelles will be available. Lascelles missed their Boxing Day match, but Howe stated, “Jamaal we don’t think serious, we hope we can get him back pretty soon. Let’s wait and see [if he’s back vs. Liverpool]. Fingers crossed.”
While Lascelles’ availability remains uncertain, it is confirmed that Newcastle will be without several key players, including Nick Pope, Harvey Barnes, Sandro Tonali, Joe Willock, Jacob Murphy, Elliot Anderson, Javi Manquillo, and Matt Targett due to various injuries and bans. However, they did receive a boost with Joelinton’s return from a hamstring strain, making him a potential starter at Anfield.
Despite the limited options available, Howe can still rely on Callum Wilson, Miguel Almiron, Anthony Gordon, and Alexander Isak in attack. The expected center-back partnership will likely feature Fabian Schar and Sven Botman if Lascelles is unable to play.
On the other hand, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp received positive news as Alexis Mac Allister participated in training, indicating his potential availability for the match. However, Jarell Quansah was notably absent.
Possible Newcastle XI vs. Liverpool:
- Dubravka
- Trippier
- Schar
- Botman
- Livramento
- Guimaraes
- Joelinton
- Longstaff
- Wilson
- Gordon
- Isak