Newcastle United is gearing up for their Premier League match against Crystal Palace this Saturday, with manager Eddie Howe expressing optimism about the return of some key players. The team is looking to extend their impressive seven-game unbeaten streak across all competitions as they prepare to face Crystal Palace at St James’ Park after the recent international break. This period has been quite eventful for some of the Newcastle players.
Alexander Isak, who had scored two goals in a match against London Stadium, unfortunately sustained an injury in the later stages of the game. Consequently, he had to withdraw from the Sweden squad, though the injury is believed to be minor.
On the other hand, midfielder Sandro Tonali was compelled to leave the Italy squad due to an investigation by the Turin Public Prosecutor’s Office. The nature and potential consequences of the investigation remain unclear at this point. However, manager Luciano Spalletti decided that Tonali was not in the right frame of mind to represent Italy during the break, and it is uncertain whether he will participate in the upcoming match for Newcastle.
Joelinton, who had only played for a brief four minutes after coming off the bench against Burnley, suffered a hamstring injury. While this injury is not deemed severe, his return to training was postponed. There’s a chance he could make a comeback following the two-week international break.
Dutch defender Sven Botman missed the last four matches but is expected to be back in contention when the Premier League resumes. He has expressed his determination to return stronger after the break.
Emil Krafth was excluded from Newcastle’s Champions League squad due to his ongoing recovery from a serious knee injury. However, he has made significant progress in recent weeks and has returned to training, even featuring in the Under-21s. Although he is technically fit, it may still take a few weeks to get him fully match-ready.
Joe Willock has been sidelined since May due to an Achilles injury and hasn’t featured for Newcastle. Eddie Howe is hopeful that the midfielder will return to training later this month, but it might take some time for him to regain match fitness. Willock had initially suffered a hamstring injury last season before facing a setback in his recovery with a fresh Achilles injury.
Harvey Barnes, who sustained a foot injury and was substituted during a match against Sheffield United last month, faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines. Although surgery isn’t required, manager Eddie Howe has stated that Barnes will not return to training until late December and will need more time to be match-fit.
The expected return dates for these players are as follows:
– Sven Botman: Crystal Palace (H) on 21/10.
– Emil Krafth: Crystal Palace (H) on 21/10.
– Joe Willock: Manchester United (A) on 01/11.
– Harvey Barnes: January 2024.
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