Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has confirmed that he’ll be without two key players when he brings his side to face Sheffield United this weekend.
The Blades head into the game without a win this season. Newcastle, meanwhile, have been inconsistent but won their last PL game before stealing a 0-0 draw in Milan this week.
However, while Newcastle will be heavy favourites on paper, Mags boss Eddie Howe has confirmed that two big players are missing for the clash.
Newcastle without Joelinton and Joe Willock to face Sheffield United
Speaking to the media ahead of the game with United, Howe was under no illusions as to how tough the game would be
And to make things a tad more difficult for Howe and Newcastle, he has confirmed that two expensive signings are missing.
“We’re still missing Joelinton and Joe Willock in midfield. Apart from that, we’re pretty good. We hope with Joelinton that he could possibly be back sooner, but with Joe Willock it will definitely be after the international break,” Howe said.
Joelinton has been a revelaation under Eddie Howe after initially looking like a £40m flop. Willock, meanwhile, has been consistently good since signing from Arsenal for £25m.
Of course, it shows the challenge ahead for United, with just two of Newcastle’s players missing showing a £65m void.
Sheffield United News View: Joelinton loss is big for the Blades
While we won’t celebrate a player being injured on this site, it is definitely worth noting that Joelinton being out is a bit of a bonus for the Blades.
His energy and quality in the midfield is obvious, as is his athleticism and power. For Joelinton not to be involved means that there’s a big chance United could win the midfield battle now.
The Blades can be confident in getting something out of the game if they show the same quality and energy they have done recently.