A fourth season-ending injury blow for Newcastle United has been reported.
17-year-old Lewis Miley is set to miss the rest of the season after picking up a back injury while on international duty with England Under-20s last month. While the injury is not thought to be serious, a decision has been made to rest the teenager, according to Mail Online.
A similar decision was also made regarding Joe Willock after repeat Achilles injuries during the season. The decisions have been made to give the players the chance to recover fully before playing competitive football again.
Five Newcastle players have already been ruled out for the rest of the season. In addition to Miley and Willock, Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles have been ruled out until late 2024 following respective ACL injuries.
Sandro Tonali is also banned until August 27 as he awaits the verdict of an FA charge.
Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe has also previously spoken about his desire to ‘protect’ Miley and manage his minutes after becoming a regular first-team starter amid an injury crisis. The youngster has made 26 appearances for Newcastle this season, scoring once and grabbing four assists, including one in the Champions League.
United have recently welcomed Elliot Anderson back into the starting line-up following a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to injury. Newcastle’s midfield is also likely to be bolstered by the return of Joelinton before the end of the season.
Newcastle have a free weekend before returning the Premier League action against Crystal Palace on Wednesday night (8pm kick-off). Howe will be hoping to welcome some players back from injury for that match.
Callum Wilson has been spotted back in training after two months out with a pectoral injury and could make the bench at Selhurst Park. Kieran Trippier has been out for seven weeks with a calf injury but is hoping to return by the end of the month.
1. Fabian Schar
Was forced off at half-time against Sheffield United with a hamstring issue. Eddie Howe confirmed it was not a serious injury but it's unclear if the defender will be passed fit to play against Burnley next week. Estimated return: TBC (May 2024)
2. Miguel Almiron
Almiron was a casualty against West Ham, being replaced just minutes after coming on as a substitute with a knee issue. He has been back on the grass and is close to a return. Estimated return: Burnley (A) - 04/05
3. Kieran Trippier
Trippier hasn’t featured since the win over Wolves at the beginning of March. A calf injury has kept him out of action since then and has spoken about taking extra precautions to ensure he doesn't pick up another injury. Expected return: Brighton (H) - 11/05
4. Nick Pope
Pope dislocated his shoulder during the win over Manchester United in December. An April return was initially estimated as he gets eased into training. Estimated return: Brighton (H) - 11/05