'Groin issue' - Newcastle United handed fresh injury concern ahead of Sunderland clash as alternative named
Newcastle United team news v Sunderland: Eddie Howe’s side have a fresh injury concern ahead of Sunday’s derby clash.
Newcastle United have been handed a fresh injury blow ahead of Sunday’s Tyne-Wear derby against Sunderland.
The Magpies drew 2-2 with Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League on Wednesday night with goals from Anthony Gordon and Lewis Miley.
Miley came on as a substitute in the second half to become Newcastle’s youngest ever Champions League goalscorer. The 19-year-old replaced Joelinton after the Brazilian went down with an injury in the second half.
Eddie Howe issues Joelinton injury update
Following the match, Howe provided a small update on Joelinton.
“It looks like a groin issue,” Howe said. “I don't know how serious it is at this moment in time.”
The problem makes Joelinton at least a doubt for the Sunderland match which could leave Howe with a big selection call to make.
Goalkeeper Nick Pope is a doubt for the game while Kieran Trippier, Emil Krafth, Sven Botman and William Osula are set to miss the match.
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Midfield changes v Sunderland
Joelinton’s injury could see Miley come into the side and start against Sunderland on Sunday. The teenager has been in good form for Newcastle in recent weeks with a goal and an assist in the 4-1 win over Everton last month.
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On Miley’s impact against Leverkusen, Howe added: “Yeah, he's doing really well, and I think that's all you can ask for from any player when they enter the pitch.
“They give their best, they contribute, and they prove how good they are. I thought he did that in the time he was on the pitch.
“He scored a great goal. I'm really disappointed in him that it wasn't a match-defining moment. He's growing in his stature, and I mean aerially as well as physically.