Sports Evolve
Newcastle United have survived a scary relegation battle and are now nine points clear, but Eddie Howe’s side has had disappointing outcomes in their last two EPL games, which they lost, so they’ll without a doubt put up a tough fight against Tottenham this weekend.
To beat the Spurs, though, the Magpies will have to dig deep, which might be a problem considering their numerous injuries. The most significant injuries in their defense are Fabian Schar, goalkeeper Martin Dubravka, Federico Fernandez and Kieran Trippier.
In the midfield, there’s Jonjo Shelvey, while top club striker Calum Wilson completes the least of the men. Howe would hope we’re fit to play.
The 30-year-old Swiss, Schar, recently picked up an abductor injury during training that had him abandon his international duty. This recent injury and the groin strain he had before make his Sunday appearance in doubt. We are waiting for a statement.
Slovak Dubravka also missed Slovakia’s recent friendlies due to an unknown infection thought to be heart-related (according to the country’s coach, Tarkovic). Luckily, the 33-year old is expected in training and might travel to London over the weekend if everything goes according to plan.
Federico Fernandez has a muscle strain that has had him out since December, but the 33-year-old Argentinian was in training in Dubai and could make his first appearance in four months on Sunday.
Kieran Trippier hasn’t played since he was injured in February when he lined up against Aston Villa. He recently revealed in an interview that “my recovery is going really well” but that he will probably have to wait until the end of April to make it public that he isn’t back to fitness.
Jonjo Shelvey, who missed the Chelsea and Everton fixtures due to an “injury” is also in training with the club and perhaps fit to play, while fellow countryman, Calum Wilson, is nursing a calf injury he sustained in December.
Howe said that he was “careful not to push him back too quickly”, so the Magpies might miss their top scorer in action for another month.
Eddie and Newcastle fans will be hoping that their Sunday squad is resilient and driven enough to earn some point(s) against the Spurs, so all the best.
