Newcastle United host AC Milan in their final Champions League group stage match on Wednesday evening (8pm kick-off) - here is the injury situation heading into the match.
Newcastle were without three key players in the brief training session observed by the media on Tuesday morning. Goalkeeper Martin Dubravka, Anthony Gordon and Sean Longstaff were all missing from the session.
Doubt over Dubravka and Nick Pope's shoulder injury could see Loris Karius make only his second competitive appearance for the club. It would be the former Liverpool man's first Champions League appearance since the 3-1 defeat to Real Madrid in the 2018 final.
Karius' only appearance for Newcastle to date is the 2023 Carabao Cup final. His potential second outing is also a very important one for the club.
In order to progress to the last-16 of the Champions League, Newcastle must beat AC Milan and hope Paris Saint-Germain fail to beat Borussia Dortmund. Newcastle would have to settle for Europa League football if they get a result against Milan should PSG win.
If Newcastle lose to Milan, they will be out of European football completely for the season. The Magpies head into the game on the back of consecutive 3-0 and 4-1 defeats to Everton and Tottenham Hotspur respectively.
Howe's side are also managing an injury crisis with 16 players either ruled out or doubtful for Wednesday night's match. Here is the current injury list and expected return dates...
1. Fabian Schar (arm)
Fabian Schar left the pitch clutching his arm following Newcastle's 2-2 draw with AFC Bournemouth. Eddie Howe said he was hopeful the issue wasn't serious. Expected return: Arsenal (A) - 24/02
2. Alexander Isak (groin)
Newcastle's top scorer was forced off during Tuesday's 3-1 win at Aston Villa with a groin issue. Eddie Howe said the player was 'very close' after missing the Bournemouth match. Expected return: Arsenal (A) - 24/02
3. Joe Willock (Achilles)
Willock has reaggravated an Achilles injury and missed the win over Chelsea in November. Howe described the setback as a ‘massive blow’ and has since been ruled out for almost three months. He is close to a return. Expected return: Arsenal (A) - 24/02
4. Matt Targett (hamstring)
Matt Targett has been on the sidelines after picking up a hamstring injury in the opening minutes of Newcastle’s 3-0 Carabao Cup win against Manchester United. The left-back had surgery on his hamstring in November and given a three month recovery time. Howe has since confirmed Targett is back on the grass and expected to return to training later this month. Expected return: Wolves (H) - 02/03