Newcastle United are continuing to push for European qualification despite numerous injury issues.
The Magpies had 10 first-team players ruled out for the 5-1 win over Sheffield United at St James’ Park on Saturday and were handed a fresh blow as Fabian Schar was withdrawn at half-time with a hamstring issue.
The win keeps Newcastle seventh in the Premier League table heading into the final four games. Seventh will likely be enough for Europa Conference League qualification unless Manchester United were to drop out of the top seven and win the FA Cup.
Next up for Newcastle is a trip to Burnley on Saturday (3pm kick-off) as they look to take a step closer to securing a top-seven place. Eddie Howe’s side finished fourth last season and qualified for the Champions League but have been hit with numerous injury issues throughout the campaign.
United have regularly had 10 or more players ruled out due to injury and suspension this season, something that is likely to continue until the end of the campaign. Sandro Tonali is banned and Jamaal Lascelles, Sven Botman, Joe Willock and Lewis Miley have all been ruled out for the remainder of the campaign.
Howe also suggested that Matt Targett is unlikely to feature again while the likes of Kieran Trippier, Joelinton, Nick Pope and Miguel Almiron are all pushing to return before the end of the season. Schar can also be added to that list though Howe suggested the defender’s hamstring injury was not a serious one.
5. Lewis Miley
Miley suffered a back injury on England Under-20’s duty and there are fears that his season could be over. He faces several weeks on the sidelines and Howe has urged caution over bringing him back too quickly with his season cut short. Estimated return: July 2024 Photo: Stu Forster/Getty Images
6. Joe Willock
Willock limped off in the first half of their game against Fulham. Howe confirmed Willock was feeling his Achilles and it has since been reported that he will miss the rest of the season. Estimated return: July 2024 | Getty Images
7. Sandro Tonali
Tonali was handed a 10-month ban from football meaning he won’t be available for selection until the beginning of next season. Return date: 27/08 | Getty Images
8. Sven Botman
Botman suffered an ACL injury and has been ruled-out of action for between six and nine months. Estimated return: October - December 2024 | Getty Images