- Howe cites international break as a chance for recovery
- Shadow squad tipped to step up for Geordies
- Botman out until after the international break, Wilson and Joelinton doubtful for PSG
Newcastle United’s manager, Eddie Howe, is eyeing the forthcoming international break as a much-needed breather for his squad. The Magpies injury list will see Howe’s squad stretched for the next two matches. However, with Sven Botman and Callum Wilson on the road to recovery, Howe anticipates a bolstered lineup after the October international fixtures.
International break set to be crucial for recovery
Harvey Barnes was ruled out for three months with a toe injury last week, And the recent absence of Wilson in the Burnley match and Botman’s knee injury ruling him out of the Champions League clash against PSG underscores the team’s current predicaments. Moreover, Joelinton’s availability remains uncertain due to a recent injury setback.
Howe acknowledges the gruelling nature of this season, highlighting the magnitude of any injury on the squad’s performance. Nevertheless, he maintains a resilient stance, emphasising the need to navigate through the challenges that lie ahead.
After the PSG match, Anthony Gordon will be given a well-deserved rest as he serves his suspension, making him unavailable for the West Ham fixture. While Gordon may potentially secure a spot in the England squad, Howe is hopeful that the break will afford crucial recovery time for several players after the London Stadium face-off.
Despite the setbacks, Howe applauds the commendable performance of the replacement players, recognising the invaluable experience they are gaining. He is confident that this will ultimately contribute to the team’s sustained progress. Newcastle have won four matches from five in all competitions, keeping five clean sheets. After the 8-0 win at Sheffield United the Newcastle boss made 10 changes to his side for the EFL Cup tie against Manchester City, which resulted in a 1-0 win for the Magpies over last season’s treble winners.
Looking forward, Howe is sanguine about the squad’s potential to fortify once the injured players make their return. He anticipates a more robust lineup in the imminent future and is eager to witness the team’s evolution as the season unfolds.
Betting Implications
Newcastle are undoubtedly playing well, however, their style of play requires intensity, and Howe’s options for rotation will be limited due to the injuries and Gordon’s suspension for the next Premier League match at West Ham. While United have kept two clean sheets without him, Botman is a massive influence at the back and he will be unavailable against PSG and West Ham. Joelinton adds a huge physical presence to Howe’s side from either midfield or the left of the attack. It looks as though he could be missing in the next two matches. This is a particular blow for the West Ham match as the Brazilian would have been the natural replacement for the suspended Gordon. In addition to this, Joe Willock has been out of action with a hamstring problem.
Bettors need to assess how much of an affect the injuries will have on the in-form Magpies over the next two fixtures.
At the time of writing, bet365 have Newcastle as favourites to beat PSG at St James’ Park with 31/20. A PSG win is priced at 8/5 with a draw 11/4.
As far as the West Ham match is concerned, bet365, at the time of writing are offering 23/20 for a Newcastle win, with West Ham 2/1 and a draw 11/4.
Check the best bookmakers for the UEFA Champions League and the best UK betting sites for the Premier League.
For more on Newcastle’s Champions League match against PSG check our guide.
