CALLUM WILSON, Miguel Almiron and Allan Saint-Maximin should all be available for Newcastle United’s weekend game with Liverpool – but Joe Willock faces a race against time to feature in the Carabao Cup final against Manchester United.
Wilson missed Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Bournemouth because of a hamstring issue, with Almiron, Saint-Maximin and Willock all unable to complete the game at the Vitality Stadium after suffering injuries of their own.
Almiron was left with an injured hand after he was accidentally stamped on by an opponent, and while he initially attempted to continue, he was eventually forced off. Saint-Maximin was also substituted in the second half after a knock to the leg that left him in considerable pain.
Both players were assessed in the immediate aftermath of the game, and the initial prognosis is positive on both counts. Neither injury is believed to be especially serious, and both forwards should be available to face Liverpool on Saturday. Similarly, Wilson should be back in the fold this weekend, with his absence from Saturday’s game a largely precautionary measure.
Willock’s problem is more serious, with the Magpies midfielder having suffered a hamstring strain in the first half against Bournemouth. His leg was heavily strapped and he attempted to continue, but it quickly became apparent he was unable to function effectively, and he was substituted and replaced by Anthony Gordon in the 36th minute.
Willock was working with Newcastle’s medical staff yesterday, but with the Carabao Cup final just 13 days away, the 23-year-old has to be regarded as a major doubt for Wembley.
“Miggy and Maxi, I don’t think are too bad,” said Eddie Howe, who made an emotional return to Bournemouth at the weekend, having spent a combined 22 years with the Cherries as a player and manager. “Miggy got stamped on his hand, so we think he’ll be okay. Maxi was just a knock.
“The concern is Joe, who has gone off with a hamstring problems, so we’ll have to wait and see how he is.”
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