Eddie Howe says he is ‘absolutely devastated’ for 28-year-old Newcastle player after Dortmund loss

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Newcastle United are the walking wounded after their Champions League defeat to Borussia Dortmund.

While the 1-0 loss against the German side dented Newcastle’s hopes of advancing to the knockout stages of the Champions League, it could also prove to be a pivotal night when it comes to the Magpies competing in other competitions.

That is because Eddie Howe lost a couple of players to injury.

Alexander Isak was forced off with a groin problem in the 15th minute, which was a devastating blow so early in the game.

Newcastle then suffered another issue in the second half, with Jacob Murphy having to be withdrawn just five minutes after coming on as a substitute.

The 28-year-old went down clutching his shoulder, and was swiftly withdrawn with his arm in a makeshift sling.

It was such a shame to see Murphy forced off during the Champions League defeat, and now Eddie Howe has given his thoughts on the winger’s injury.

Eddie Howe gutted about Jacob Murphy injury

Following the 1-0 loss, Howe spoke to the media. He was asked during his press conference about how big a blow it is to lose Murphy to injury.

“Absolutely devastated for him,” he said.

“Let’s see how bad it is. But he’s been such a big player for us, playing in different positions. Great personality so we will certainly miss him if he is out.”

Newcastle’s squad takes a battering in the Champions League

It looked like a bad injury for Murphy, so it might be a while before we see him play in a black and white shirt again.

That is such a shame, while it also means that Eddie Howe is suddenly struggling for wide options.

He already has Harvey Barnes out of action until 2024, and now Murphy is set for a spell on the sidelines.

It means Newcastle only have Anthony Gordon and Miguel Almiron as out and out wingers, which will hinder Howe’s ability to rotate his side.

The Magpies do have some alternatives, at least. Joelinton is capable of playing out wide, and so is Elliot Anderson – but he is also out of action with a back problem.

Newcastle’s squad is taking a battering, and it is no wonder Howe is so gutted about what happened to Murphy.