Newcastle United could be facing a defensive injury crisis for this weekend’s trip to Watford.
Steve McClaren confirmed in his pre-match press conference that Newcastle are (once again) struggling with injuries, particularly in defence:
“We’ve only got four fit defenders, the majority of them centre-backs,” said McClaren.
“(Kevin) Mbabu, (Paul) Dummett and (Jack) Colback are all out.”
The absence of Mbabu, Dummett and Colback leaves Newcastle desperately short of cover in the left-back position, with Massadio Haidara still a while away from returning to fitness.
Vurnon Anita, who has been sidelined for a few weeks with a hamstring injury he picked up at West Brom, is also not yet ready to return to the action.
The Dutchman, who played as a left-back for long spells during his time at Ajax, is however making “good progress” in his comeback from injury.
“He has been given the green light to start running outside, and has taken part in light ball work sessions with physio Michael Harding this week,” added McClaren.
The injuries could see Newcastle opt to field a similar formation as they did away at Watford in their recent FA Cup defeat, with three central defenders.
Jamaal Lascelles is fit and could make his first Premier League start for Newcastle.
Lascelles could slot into one of the three at the back, or could potentially cover at left back.
The former Nottingham Forest man played there during the second half of Newcastle’s collapse at Manchester City earlier this season, replacing Kevin Mbabu who went off injured early in the game.
Elsewhere, Siem de Jong is still absent as he recovers from his eye injury, and Ivan Toney has today been ruled out for several weeks after suffering an ankle injury in training.
