Newcastle United are facing a deepening injury crisis ahead of their match against Barcelona, with three first-team players carrying knocks. Manager Eddie Howe revealed after Saturday’s 3-1 FA Cup defeat to Manchester City that Jacob Murphy, Anthony Gordon, and Joelinton are all concerns.
Murphy missed the City game entirely due to a neck problem sustained the day before. Despite taking a place on the bench, a mini fitness test in the warm-up deemed him unfit to play. Howe explained he was unable to use Murphy, leaving the squad “really stretched”.
Gordon and Joelinton were both rested from the start against City, with Howe citing an ankle problem for Gordon and the need to manage Joelinton’s minutes based on past experience. Both players made late substitute appearances as Newcastle chased the game.
“We tried to do it with a couple of key players today that we had to protect,” Howe said. “These players are too big to lose.” The Newcastle boss is expected to provide further updates at his press conference at 4.30pm today at St James’ Park.
Meanwhile, Barcelona arrive in strong form after a 1-0 win over Athletic Bilbao on Saturday, with Lamine Yamal scoring the winner. The La Liga leaders present a formidable test for Howe’s injury-hit side.
