Newcastle United’s defensive problems have worsened after Tino Livramento was ruled out for up to two months with a hamstring injury. The 23-year-old was forced off during the FA Cup penalty shootout win over Bournemouth. Head coach Eddie Howe admitted his backline is “really stretched” as several senior defenders are already sidelined, leaving the club short of options ahead of a demanding fixture schedule.
Howe admits defence is thin
Livramento, who has 19 appearances this season and three England caps, had only recently returned from a knee injury. Howe said, “I’m absolutely devastated for him because he’s worked so hard to come back.” Speaking after the 2-0 Carabao Cup semi-final defeat to Manchester City, Howe added, “Defensively, we’re really stretched. We’re pinning our hopes on Dan being back pretty soon.”
Key defenders already injured
Newcastle are without Dan Burn, Fabian Schar and Emil Krafth, while Burn suffered a broken rib and punctured lung in the derby loss to Sunderland. The defender could return before the end of the month. Howe also has the option of recalling Matt Targett from his Middlesbrough loan spell to ease the crisis.
Transfer window still open
With two-and-a-half weeks remaining in the transfer window, Newcastle can still strengthen. However, Howe has questioned whether the “right player” is available in mid-season. The club does have funds, but January signings could affect summer plans.
Tough fixtures ahead
Available senior defenders include Malick Thiaw, Sven Botman, Lewis Hall and Kieran Trippier, while midfielder Lewis Miley has filled in at right-back. Newcastle face a brutal run with matches against Wolves, PSV, Aston Villa (twice), PSG, Liverpool, Manchester City, Brentford and Tottenham in just 24 days.
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