Rafa Benitez has confirmed that Jamaal Lascelles is available to return against Arsenal.
The captain missed the trip to Bournemouth, having been taken off at half time against Everton due to injury.
He was replaced by Federico Fernandez, but the Argentinian wasn’t entirely convincing at the heart of the Magpies’ defence.
Benitez has a big decision to make as to whether he recalls his captain.
Schar in light training
One player who definitely won’t feature on Monday night is Fabian Schar.
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The Swiss centre back is suspended for the game, having picked up a two-game ban after his 10th yellow of the season against Everton.
But Schar’s fitness is still a topic of discussion after the incident in Switzerland’s Euro 2020 qualifier with Georgia. He was knocked out after a clash of heads, but ludicrously completed the game.
The 27-year-old was forced to sit out their next game, and Benitez has confirmed that Schar is back in training.
“We take these things very, very seriously. He [Schar] had a test over there and another test here this morning,” the manager said.
“He is fine and training lightly with the team.”
Only Longstaff ruled out
Other than Sean Longstaff, Benitez has a clean bill of health ahead of the game at the Emirates. This will be a huge boost to the manager, as he prepares his side for a tough game against one of the Premier League’s best sides.
Christian Atsu, DeAndre Yedlin and Miguel Almiron only returned to training on Friday following the international break, so the game being delayed until Monday night is a blessing for Benitez.
You’d imagine that the latter two will start the game. Had we been playing on Saturday, they might not have been available.
With only Longstaff ruled out, Benitez has options all over the pitch to choose from.