Newcastle United are eyeing back-to-back wins in the Premier League for the first time in 2024 as they face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge tonight (8pm kick-off).
The Magpies beat Wolverhampton Wanderers 3-0 last time out at St James' Park. That match saw Kieran Trippier forced off with a calf injury and subsequently ruled out for the trip to Chelsea.
Trippier is due to return for Newcastle after the international break, according to head coach Eddie Howe.
United could welcome Matt Targett back on the bench against Chelsea after the left-back returned to full training after four months out with a hamstring injury. With Trippier out and Lewis Hall ineligible to feature against his parent club, two places have opened up in Newcastle's matchday squad on Monday evening.
"Matt is working his way back to full fitness," head coach Eddie Howe told The Gazette. "If there was a situation where we needed him desperately, I think he could play now but I still think he needs a little bit more training time.
"That's not to say he won't be involved in the game but he's done well, had a full week of training and is getting closer."
Targett will be Newcastle's latest injury boost after Howe recently welcomed Joe Willock, Alexander Isak and Elliot Anderson back from spells on the sidelines. In addition to Hall and Trippier being unavailable, The Magpies will also be without Nick Pope, Callum Wilson, Joelinton and Sandro Tonali.
9. Sandro Tonali (suspended)
Tonali was handed a 10-month ban from football after breaching Italian betting regulations. This suspension will rule the midfielder out of action for the rest of the season, next summer’s European Championship and the opening weeks of next season. Has since been charged by the FA and awaits potential punishment. Expected return: 27/08/24 | Getty Images
10. Sven Botman (knee)
Botman suffered an ACL injury against Manchester City in the FA Cup and has been ruled-out of action for 'six-to-nine' months. He will undergo surgery after suffering a similar injury earlier this season. Expected return: October-December 2024 | Getty Images
11. Jamaal Lascelles (knee)
Suffered a knee injury early on in the 4-3 win over West Ham United. Later confirmed to be an ACL issue, ruling him out for a lengthy period. Expected return: October-December 2024 | AFP via Getty Images