- Isak substituted with groin problem, Murphy dislocates shoulder
- Howe’s side suffer first Group F loss
- Anderson out with back injury as Tonali ban looms
Newcastle United are bracing themselves for a challenging Premier League fixture against Wolves this Saturday, without a number of key players. Alexander Isak and Jacob Murphy were both substituted, Isak with a recurring groin issue and Murphy with a dislocated shoulder. Elliot Anderson (back) is also ruled out, which, along with Sandro Tonali’s impending suspension, will further add to the team’s concerns.
Dortmund win at St James’ as Magpies suffer injury setbacks
The setback comes on the heels of a 1-0 defeat against Dortmund, in a rain-soaked match at St James’ Park. Newcastle made an impressive start to their Champions League campaign, drawing with AC Milan and triumphing over Paris St-Germain. However, Dortmund managed to secure a vital victory with Felix Nmecha’s well-placed finish just before half-time.
While Newcastle had their chances, Dortmund’s goalkeeper Gregor Kobel proved formidable, thwarting attempts by Anthony Gordon and Callum Wilson. The Magpies came agonisingly close to equalising, with Wilson’s header striking the crossbar and Gordon’s shot deflected onto the frame in the dying moments of the match.
Dortmund kept Newcastle goalkeeper Nick Pope on his toes, the custodian making a standout double save against Donyell Malen and Niclas Fullkrug in the first half. The result has intensified the competition in Group F, leaving Newcastle eager for a better outcome in their upcoming rematch against Dortmund next month.
Reflecting on the Dortmund defeat, Manager Eddie Howe emphasised the need for a thorough analysis of the game. He stressed the importance of adapting quickly for the rematch, expressing his belief that the team didn’t deserve to lose. This loss underscores the challenges faced by Newcastle, particularly with their relatively compact squad.
Isak, Murphy and Anderson look set to miss the clash against Wolves. Howe stated:
“Jacob came off with what looks like a serious injury.
“We’ve got a small squad as it is. That’s probably the most disappointing thing of the night.
“It looks like a recurrence of his [Isak’s] groin problem and it’s a big blow. Jacob looks serious, potentially a dislocation of his shoulder.”
Anderson picked up a back injury before the game and is also in trouble. Howe said: “It’s a back injury and he will be out for a few weeks.”
In the wake of these setbacks, Newcastle United will need to regroup for their Premier League clash against Wolves, hoping to secure a positive result despite the absence of key players.On a positive note Joelinton has returned to the side, Joe Willock made his first appearance of the season from the bench and Sven Botman is scheduled to return within the next couple of weeks.
Betting Implications
Newcastle did not play badly against Dortmund and have been on a great run of form. However, bettors need to monitor their injury situation and the potential impact of Tonali’s suspension. They have Premier League matches against Wolves, Arsenal and Bournemouth, an EFL Cup tie at Manchester United and the away match against Dortmund in the Champions League.
Howe’s side are currently fifth favourites to win the Premier League and to finish in the top four. In the Champions League they are second favourites to win Group F and are seventh favourites to win the competition. Bettors need to assess how much the loss of Tonali for the season will affect their chances.
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