Newcastle United face potential absences for key players ahead of Saturday’s match against Leicester City. Goalkeeper Nick Pope, who has been an ever-present in the Premier League this season, is struggling with a knee issue. Manager Eddie Howe confirmed that Pope will see a specialist on Friday to assess the injury, leaving Martin Dubravka and Odysseas Vlachodimos as possible replacements.
“Nick has been dealing with a knee problem this week,” Howe explained during his Friday press conference. “At first, we thought it wasn’t serious, but he’ll be seeing a specialist today, and we’ll know more after that.”
In addition to Pope’s uncertainty, striker Callum Wilson is set for an extended absence. Howe announced that Wilson will be sidelined for around eight weeks due to a hamstring injury sustained late in last weekend’s match against Brentford. This follows a lengthy recovery from a back injury, which had already kept the 32-year-old out for much of the season.
“Callum’s injury happened in a harmless moment during the Brentford game,” Howe said. “I really feel for him. He’s worked so hard to recover, not just from this latest setback, but throughout his entire career. He’s been an inspiration with his commitment and resilience. It’s tough to see him face another challenge after coming so close to being fully fit.”
Midfielder Joe Willock will also miss the weekend fixture. Willock, who was absent for the Brentford defeat with a hamstring issue, has yet to return to training and is unlikely to be available for selection.
