Newcastle United have performed admirably in their return to the Premier League this season but they have seen their form dip in recent weeks, winning just one of their last five league matches.
The Magpies have scored just three goals during that run, as well as losing back-to-back fixtures against Burnley and Bournemouth, which shows Rafael Benitez’s side still have a lot of work to do if they’re to retain their top-flight status.
Summer signing Mikel Merino has certainly made a huge impression, quickly becoming a fan favourite and turning his loan from Borussia Dortmund into a permanent deal, but they face a lengthy absence without the Spaniard.
Recent updates suggest that 21-year-old Merino could be out of action for the next six to eight weeks, which leaves a huge void in midfield for the Magpies to fill- and they face a flurry of important matches during that time.
Manchester United await after the international break, with Newcastle then facing Watford and West Brom in November, before tackling Chelsea, Leicester, Everton, Arsenal, West Ham, Manchester City and Brighton in December.
Therefore, it’s safe to say fans aren’t too optimistic of their chances without Merino in the side.
https://twitter.com/BigJB147/status/928559953966784512
Lascelles wont be fit for Man United.
Merino out for a few more weeks.
Not good. #NUFC— πΌπππππππ© ππΌ (@ab_nufc) November 9, 2017
8 weeks of THOSE fixtures, without Merino? Oh boy, it's going to be a nervy wait until January for #NUFC
— Marc Jobling (@MarcJobling) November 9, 2017
https://twitter.com/Swampmonster9/status/928532183379251200
