Newcastle have been nursing several injury issues for the majority of the season with the likes of Emil Krafth ruled out for the majority of the campaign so far. Record signing Alexander Isak, midfielder Jonjo Shelvey and defender Paul Dummett have also had extended spells on the sidelines.
But heading into 2023, head coach Eddie Howe is hopeful of welcoming back some players sooner rather than later. The Magpies will be looking to build on a fantastic start to the Premier League season which has left them sitting third in the table heading into the New Year.
Still, Newcastle have been hit with some fresh injury blows since returning to league action following the World Cup. Matt Targett has now been ruled out for an indeterminate period while Shelvey picked up another injury as he continues to chase a contract extension.
The 30-year-old needs to start two more games for the club in order to secure a one-year deal with his current contract up at the end of the season.
Here is Newcastle United’s injury list and estimated return dates...
1. Joe Willock - hamstring
Joe Willock was a concern following Sunday’s win over Manchester United as he was taken off with a potential hamstring issue. Eddie Howe was unable to provide a fitness update ahead of the trip to West Ham United on Tuesday but the club posted a photo of the midfielder taking part in training ahead of the match. What Howe said: “Joe Willock’s the obvious one. He was feeling his hamstring, but he wasn’t sure if it was cramp or something more sinister. So we’ll wait and see. A couple more players just nursing little things because of the physical game that it was.” Estimated return date: 05/03 - West Ham (A) Photo: OLI SCARFF
2. Miguel Almiron - thigh
Top scorer Miguel Almiron was forced to withdraw from international duty with Paraguay after picking up a thigh injury in training at Newcastle. He is now facing an extended spell on the sidelines. What Howe said: “Miggy pulled a thigh muscle in training. Unfortunately, it’s quite a bad one. It’s going to be six weeks.” Estimated return date: 30/04 - Southampton (H) Photo: LINDSEY PARNABY
3. Emil Krafth - ACL
The Swedish right-back is has been out for the majority of the season after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament against Tranmere in August. What Howe said: “There’s a very, very slim chance, I wouldn’t hold out much hope that we’ll see him before the end of the season.” Estimated return date: Pre season Photo: PAUL ELLIS
4. Ryan Fraser - training with Under-21s
Ryan Fraser is not part of Eddie Howe’s first team plans at the moment and is expected to be moved on from the club in the summer. He is unlikely to feature again this season. What Howe said: “I made the decision to concentrate on players that are committed to Newcastle. For the benefit of the group, I’ve made that call.” Estimated return date: Unknown Photo: Ian MacNicol