Newcastle United are gearing up for their biggest game in over two decades.
Sunday sees Eddie Howe take his team to Wembley for the Carabao Cup final, their first appearance at the national stadium aside from playing a rehoused Tottenham since the 1999 FA Cup final.
On that day, Manchester United emerged victorious and it is the Old Trafford giants who lie in wait again.
Frustratingly, Newcastle will be without the excellent Nick Pope following his red card against Liverpool on Saturday, although Bruno Guimaraes will be available once more following his three-match suspension.
Luckily, Allan Saint-Maximin and Miguel Almiron shrugged off injury concerns to play against Liverpool, although there are other worries.
Here’s the latest on Newcastle injuries…
Callum Wilson
Injured for the draw at Bournemouth due to a slight hamstring problem, Wilson managed 30 minutes against Liverpool and is in contention for the game at Wembley.
What Howe has said (via the Chronicle): “Callum did well, I was pleased with him and I’m just pleased he managed to get through that 30 minute spell fine.”
Potential return date: Sunday 26 February 2023 vs Manchester United
Joelinton
The Brazilian was forced off during the loss at St James’ Park on Sunday after initially shaking off what appeared to be a hamstring problem. Still, Howe confirmed he was confident Joelinton’s issue was not a serious one.
What Howe has said (to BBC Radio Newcastle via the Chronicle): “We hope he’s OK. He wanted to carry on – I wanted to protect him for the games ahead. We hope it’s not serious.”
Potential return date: Sunday 26 February 2023 vs Manchester United
Joe Willock
While there were concerns over Willock after he came off with a hamstring problem in the draw at Bournemouth, Howe has since confirmed a scan has showed his injury is not particularly serious.
What Howe has said (via BBC Sport): “Joe [Willock] was the big concern and after a scan we got some good news that it’s not serious.”
Potential return date: Sunday 26 February 2023 vs Manchester United
Matt Targett
The defender has not played since before the World Cup as a result of heel injury but stepped up his return with a run-out for the club’s U21 side earlier this week.
What Howe has said (via the Northern Echo): “He’s got very different attributes to Dan [Burn], and in his own right is an outstanding player. Having him back is a great boost for us.”
Potential return date: Sunday 26 February 2023 vs Manchester United
Emil Krafth
The defender is not expected to play again this season after suffering a long-term knee injury way back in August.
What Howe has said (via The Athletic): “We’re all really feeling for him now. It’s an ACL injury, so he’ll be out for a number of months.”
Potential return date: Summer 2023
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