Newcastle United head to Arsenal this Saturday (8pm kick-off) on the back of a positive week on the injury front.
Although they weren't been pictured this week, Alexander Isak and Joe Willock have returned to training after injury absences while Fabian Schar has been deemed okay after leaving the pitch in discomfort following the 2-2 draw with AFC Bournemouth last time out. While The Magpies still have longer-term absences with the likes of Joelinton, Callum Wilson, Nick Pope and the suspended Sandro Tonali, the injury list shows signs of easing, even if head coach Eddie Howe wouldn't admit it. ]
"I can't say yes to that for obvious reasons," Howe said when asked if his side were through the worst of the injury crisis. "We hope we've got a stronger squad from where we were a few weeks ago."
In addition to Willock and Isak returning to training, Matt Targett and Elliot Anderson are due back in training next week after being on the sidelines for the majority of the last four months.
Newcastle travel to Arsenal this weekend looking to extend their unbeaten run in the Premier League to five matches. But that could prove difficult given The Magpies haven't won at the Emirates Stadium since 2010 and Arsenal have won each of their last five games, scoring 21 goals in the process.
While Newcastle have been reasonably free-scoring themselves, with 14 goals in their last five games, keeping goals out at the other end has proven to be an issue with Howe's side yet to keep a Premier League clean sheet in 2024.
Here is Newcastle United's injury list and expected return dates...
5. Callum Wilson (chest)
Wilson managed to complete 90 minutes at Nottingham Forest but ended the match with his arm in a makeshift sling. It has since been revealed the striker suffered a pectoral injury in his chest. Has undergone surgery and is back out on the grass. Expected return: Burnley (A) - 04/05 | Getty Images
6. Miguel Almiron (knee)
Forced off just 10 minutes after coming on against West Ham with a knee issue which will keep him sidelined for around a month. Expected return: Burnley (A) - 04/05 | Getty Images
7. Joelinton (thigh)
Joelinton picked up a thigh injury during Newcastle's 3-0 win over Sunderland. He was able to briefly play on before being withdrawn. Eddie Howe has ruled the Brazilian out for at least six weeks but surgery on the injury is likely to keep the midfielder out until the end of the season. Expected return date: Brighton (H) - 11/05 | Getty Images
8. Lewis Miley (back)
Lewis Miley injured his back on international duty. There were fears his season could be over, but he may still be able to play a part of the remainder of the campaign. Expected return: May 2024 Photo: Stu Forster/Getty Images