Newcastle United have suffered fresh injury set-backs just as the situation was starting to clear up.
The Magpies have welcomed Sean Longstaff, Callum Wilson and Dan Burn back from injury over the past week. But they have been dealt two fresh concerns regarding Anthony Gordon and Kieran Trippier heading into Saturday's Premier League match against Fulham at St James' Park (3pm kick-off).
Trippier is suspended for the match regardless while Gordon has been a regular starter for The Magpies this season in the absence of summer signing Harvey Barnes. Barnes hasn't featured for Newcastle in almost three months following a foot injury picked up at Sheffield United.
He was thought to be close to a return but has since suffered a set-back in his recovery. Joe Willock's spell on the sidelines is also set to continue following injections to ease his Achilles issue.
Sven Botman is understood to be closing in on a return but the club will be hoping the defender suffers no further set-backs with his knee issue that has also kept him out since the Sheffield United match. The likes of Elliot Anderson, Matt Targett and Jacob Murphy are set to be out until early 2024 while goalkeeper Nick Pope faces months out following surgery on a dislocated shoulder.
Here is Newcastle's current 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 He was able to briefly play on before being withdrawn.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