Newcastle United are hoping to be bolstered by some players returning from injury in the coming weeks.
The Magpies have been in a positive run of form in the Premier League having lost just one of their last 10 top-flight matches amid an injury crisis. Nick Pope is the latest player to add to the lengthy injury list after he dislocated his shoulder in the 1-0 win over Manchester United on Saturday.
The 31-year-old is set for an extended period on the sidelines as he is set for surgery. Pope will be the third Newcastle player to undergo surgery this season after Matt Targett and Jacob Murphy, both of whom are out until early 2024.
But there are a few players closing in on returns to the first-team picture amid a hectic festive fixture schedule. Sven Botman has returned to light training individually after over two months out with a knee injury while Sean Longstaff and Joe Willock are understood to be pushing to be back involved in the coming weeks.
Callum Wilson, Harvey Barnes, Elliot Anderson, Javier Manquillo and Dan Burn are also out with Sandro Tonali currently one month into a 10-month betting ban.
Here is Newcastle United’s current injury list and expected return dates...
1. Fabian Schar (arm)
Fabian Schar left the pitch clutching his arm following Newcastle's 2-2 draw with AFC Bournemouth. Eddie Howe said he was hopeful the issue wasn't serious. Expected return: Arsenal (A) - 24/02
2. Alexander Isak (groin)
Newcastle's top scorer was forced off during Tuesday's 3-1 win at Aston Villa with a groin issue. Eddie Howe said the player was 'very close' after missing the Bournemouth match. Expected return: Arsenal (A) - 24/02
3. Joe Willock (Achilles)
Willock has reaggravated an Achilles injury and missed the win over Chelsea in November. Howe described the setback as a ‘massive blow’ and has since been ruled out for almost three months. He is close to a return. Expected return: Arsenal (A) - 24/02
4. Matt Targett (hamstring)
Matt Targett has been on the sidelines after picking up a hamstring injury in the opening minutes of Newcastle’s 3-0 Carabao Cup win against Manchester United. The left-back had surgery on his hamstring in November and given a three month recovery time. Howe has since confirmed Targett is back on the grass and expected to return to training later this month. Expected return: Wolves (H) - 02/03