Newcastle star ruled out of last pre-season friendly with injury

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The Premier League season is almost upon us.

Soon, Newcastle United will finally be back playing competitive football ahead of a huge season for the club.

One of the best sides in England last season take to the top table of European football once more as the Champions League returns to St James’ Park.

These are truly exciting times for the club and their supporters.

Still, though raising concerns seems almost blasphemous given how well things have gone since the takeover, there is an argument that Eddie Howe may not have the squad available to challenge on a number of fronts.

Sandro Tonali and Tino Livramento provide depth but Harvey Barnes is an Allan Saint-Maximin replacement, so is hardly increasing numbers in the squad.

Given the lack of bodies, any slight injury is of major concern.

Take Fabian Schar for example.

Fabian Schar to miss game against Villarreal

The defender is set to sit out of Sunday’s friendly against Villarreal on Sunday after missing the win over Fiorentina on Saturday.

Speaking after the win over the Italian side, Howe said (via Jordan Cronin): “He won’t feature tomorrow. Fabian is close to training and returning to the group but not in time for this game.”

A lack of defensive depth is a real worry

Though the 31-year-old may not be set to miss months of action, the idea of him picking up an injury this close to the Aston Villa game does underline a lack of squad depth.

Howe has spoken positively about Jamaal Lascelles this summer but, with all due respect, Schar and Sven Botman struck a brilliant partnership last season and it’s difficult to imagine the 29-year-old being able to replicate that.

Joachim Andersen continues to be linked with a move to St James’ Park but there has been little movement on that front.

If there’s any money left in the budget, central defence should be the next port of call.