Eddie Howe names two Newcastle players who will not start Champions League game vs Borussia Dortmund

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Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has provided an update on his squad ahead of Wednesday night’s Champions League game against Borussia Dortmund.

It sounds like the Magpies will have the same group of players that they had for Crystal Palace on Saturday, when they won 4-0 to move up to sixth in the Premier League.

Now attentions turn to the Champions League, where Newcastle currently sit top of their group. They face Borussia Dortmund, who are bottom after picking up just one point from their opening two games.

Regardless, it is going to be a very challenging game for Howe‘s side, and the Toon boss has provided an injury update ahead of the European fixture.

Eddie Howe provides update on Sandro Tonali, Joe Willock and Sven Botman

Ahead of the game against Dortmund, Howe has spoke to the media. He confirmed that Sandro Tonali is still available at this moment in time, while he named two players who are still not ready to make their return.

“Sandro’s fit, fine,” he said.

“Obviously there’s things going on, but the same as he was before Crystal Palace.

“Willock’s getting closer with every day that passes. Sven is still out. I think apart from that we’re pretty similar [to the weekend].”

No changes as Newcastle prepare for the Champions League

While Joe Willock is getting closer, it does not sound like he is ready to make his comeback just yet. That coincides with what Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie claimed earlier on Tuesday after watching the Magpies train.

But the main thing is that Willock is getting closer, having returned to training.

As for Sven Botman, it is no surprise to hear that he is still out of action. The Dutchman was not spotted in training, and has not featured since the Magpies’ 8-0 win over Sheffield United.

In his absence, Jamaal Lascelles will continue alongside Fabian Schar at centre-back. The skipper is playing brilliantly, having been thrust back into the side after a long period on the bench.

With regards to Tonali, it sounds like the club are just waiting for confirmation on his ban. Up until that point, they will continue to consider the 23-year-old for selection.

It would be great if he can be involved against Borussia Dortmund, as he has a lot of Champions League experience that could really help us on Wednesday night.