Newcastle United injuries: Eddie Howe has identified centre-back cover for his side amid a difficult injury situation.
If injuries in important places do not heal, Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe may be forced to use more players who are slightly out of position.
The Magpies have only one fully fit center-back for Sunday’s Premier League match against Tottenham Hotspur (4:30pm kick-off). Sven Botman has been out with a knee injury for some time, and Dan Burn has been out with a back problem.
Jamaal Lascelles’ injury in Thursday’s 3-0 loss to Everton leaves only Fabian Schar as the club’s lone natural senior right-back. Fortunately, Lascelles’ injury is not considered significant, and he could be ready for selection this weekend as Botman nears a recovery.
“I don’t think it’s a serious one,” Howe said of Lascelles’ situation. “I believe it’s a dead leg caused by a thigh blow.” I’m hoping he’ll be well, but I’m not sure at the moment.”
As a result of Lascelles’ injury, Howe was obliged to replace him at center-back with Emil Krafth. The Swede has played in the position for Newcastle on multiple occasions, but his native position is right-back.
Paul Dummett is also a centre-back option despite being used largely as a left-back during his time at Newcastle.
If Newcastle are missing players like Lascelles, Botman, and Burn in the future games, Howe believes Krafth is a ‘absolutely’ a possibility at center-back. “It’s definitely one of his positions,” The Magpies’ manager stated. “He can play center half in either a back two or a back three.” He’s most likely played in a back three for Newcastle, but right-back is his best position.”
Leave a Reply