Covid, injuries and suspensions are taking their toll on Magpies

NEWCASTLE United’s mounting Covid and injury crisis has put their upcoming fixture with Southampton at risk of postponement.

The Magpies successfully applied to the Premier League to rearrange last night’s trip to Everton after suffering a number of injuries in the draw with Manchester United.

Eddie Howe warned his side were ‘dangerously close’ to the 13-man limit required for postponements, and reports since have indicated the latest Covid-19 outbreak has spread among the squad. A club statement on Tuesday confirmed that individuals who have tested positive and are required to isolate as a result will not be named.

Newcastle may have been spared the short turnaround for the visit to the blue half of Merseyside, but Howe will almost certainly still be down to the bare bones of his squad should Sunday’s scheduled encounter at St Mary’s go ahead.

Here is a look at the full list of likely absentees for the Magpies.

CIARAN CLARK

The Republic of Ireland international was not included in the match-day squad to face the Red Devils.

KARL DARLOW

The goalkeeper, who has previously spoken of his debilitating experience of Covid-19, was also not named on the bench on Monday.

PAUL DUMMETT

A calf injury suffered in pre-season has prevented Dummett from featuring all season, but the defender was pictured in training last week and is understood to be edging closer to a return.

FEDERICO FERNANDEZ Howe previously confirmed the veteran centre-back is expected to miss the entirety of the festive schedule after picking up a ‘slight thigh’ complaint earlier this month.

RYAN FRASER

The former Bournemouth winger put in arguably one of his best United displays on Monday night, but a hamstring injury could rule him out this weekend.

ISAAC HAYDEN

Hayden was suspended for the clash with Ralf Rangnick’s side, but has shared a picture of himself in a knee brace following an operation.

JAMAL LEWIS

The almost forgotten Steve Bruce signing had impressed upon his return to the starting XI, but a hamstring injury suffered at Anfield