Newcastle United welcome Crystal Palace at St James’ Park this weekend in Premier League action, but how is Eddie Howe’s side shaping up?
Newcastle will attempt to extend their unbeaten streak to eight games in all competitions when they host Palace on Saturday afternoon (3pm kick-off). Last season, the two sides played three 0-0 draws in all competitions, with Miguel Almiron’s magnificent strike scoring the game’s final goal in April 2022.
The Magpies have a number of injury problems heading into the game, but the return of at least one crucial player this weekend should help them.
Joelinton (hamstring)
Howe is ‘confident’ the Brazilian will be involved this weekend.
Expected return: Crystal Palace (H) – 21/10
Alexander Isak (knock)
Alexander Isak suffered a knock in the closing seconds of Sweden’s encounter against West Ham United after scoring a brace before the international break and was forced to withdraw from the squad.
His ailment is not considered serious, but the striker has recently been playing with a small knee injury and has yet to return to training. Howe stated that a ‘late call’ on the striker would be made.
Expected return: Borussia Dortmund (H) – 25/10
Sven Botman (knee)
Sven Botman, a Dutch defender, has missed the last four games but is expected to return soon after saying he will come ‘back stronger than before’ over the break.
Despite making good progress during the international break, Howe could not confirm whether he will play.
Expected return: Wolverhampton Wanderers (A) – 28/10
Emil Krafth (ACL)
Emil Krafth was omitted from Newcastle’s Champions League roster while he recovers from a significant knee injury.
However, since returning to training and even playing for the Under-21s, the right-back has made good progress. He is technically fit and suitable for selection, but he may need some time to catch up.
Expected return: Crystal Palace (H) – 21/10
Joe Willock (Achilles)
Joe Willock hasn’t played for Newcastle since May and is currently sidelined with an Achilles injury.
He is back in full training with Newcastle, but it will take some time for him to catch up and be ready to play in the first team.
Willock suffered a hamstring injury last season before experiencing another setback in his recovery with a new Achilles ailment.
Expected return: Manchester United (A) – 01/11
Lewis Miley (illness)
Expected return: Borussia Dortmund (A) – 07/11
Harvey Barnes (foot)
Harvey Barnes will be out until 2024 due to a foot injury suffered last month against Sheffield United. The 25-year-old does not require surgery, but Eddie Howe has stated that he will not return to training until late December and will be unavailable for selection for a lengthier period of time.
Expected return: January 2024
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