Tottenham Hotspur travel to St. James' Park on Tuesday night aiming to recover from a disappointing home defeat, but both sides face significant selection headaches due to a mounting injury list.
Newcastle's Defensive Worries Mount
Newcastle United will be without several key figures for the visit of Spurs. Defender Kieran Trippier and winger Yoane Wissa remain sidelined with knee injuries. They are joined on the treatment table by defender Emil Krafth, also struggling with a knee issue, who is not expected back until the weekend.
Youngsters Harrison Ashby and Will Osula are also unavailable. The situation could worsen, with major doubts over two more crucial players. Centre-back Sven Botman is awaiting a specialist's opinion on a lower back problem, while goalkeeper Nick Pope requires further assessment after being withdrawn at the weekend.
Magpies boss Eddie Howe provided updates on both, stating Botman would see a specialist to decide on treatment, while Pope was among a group of players needing a "proper diagnosis" early in the week.
Spurs Seek Response Amidst Absences
Tottenham Hotspur arrive in the North East looking to bounce back from a 2-1 home loss to Fulham on Saturday. Despite a second-half goal from Mohamed Kudus, Thomas Frank's side slumped to a defeat that highlighted their inconsistent form at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium this season.
Their task at Newcastle is complicated by a lengthy injury list. James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski, and Yves Bissouma are all out with long-term issues. Striker Dominic Solanke also remains unavailable, with manager Frank cautious about a setback, refusing to put a timeframe on his return.
There is some positive news, as defender Cristian Romero is available again after serving a one-match suspension for accumulating five yellow cards. However, defender Radu Dragusin and recent signing Kota Takai are considered doubts, with the latter yet to feature for the club and unlikely to be risked.
Fixture Comes at a Pivotal Time
This midweek Premier League encounter takes on added significance for both clubs. Tottenham will be desperate to rediscover their away form and put the Fulham disappointment behind them. Newcastle, meanwhile, must navigate their injury crisis to secure a positive result at St. James' Park.
The sheer volume of absentees will test the squad depth of both Eddie Howe and Thomas Frank. With nine players definitively ruled out and a further four major doubts, the teamsheets submitted on Tuesday night will make for fascinating reading.
