Newcastle United midfielder Joelinton has been ruled out for six weeks after picking up a thigh injury during the 3-0 FA Cup win at Sunderland last weekend.
Joelinton played a key role in the opening goal at the Stadium of Light with his cross being turned in by Sunderland's Dan Ballard. A second half brace from Alexander Isak secured a comfortable win for Eddie Howe's side.
Heading into Saturday's match against Manchester City, Howe confirmed Joelinton would be facing an extended spell on the sidelines. The injury is likely to rule the Brazilian out of the next seven matches.
"The prospects over the next couple of weeks aren't good," Howe added. "It's an injury that will probably see him certainly miss a minimum of six weeks.
"It's a real blow for us, and he's had a very stop-start season unfortunately this year whereas he was so consistent last year."
Newcastle are unlikely to see any players return from injury this Saturday against Manchester City (5:30pm kick-off) at St James' Park with their list of unavailable players into double figures once again. Callum Wilson (calf), Harvey Barnes (foot), Joe Willock (Achilles), Elliot Anderson (back), Jacob Murphy (shoulder), Nick Pope (shoulder), Matt Targett (hamstring) Javier Manquillo (groin) and Sandro Tonali (banned) are all unavailable.
"No one immediately coming back but we have no one like Joelinton so we're never going to get a like-for-like replacement. He is our midfield driving force physically and we've got no one like him so it's a big blow."
Here is Newcastle United's injury list and expected return dates as things stand...
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 He was able to briefly play on before being withdrawn.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