Newcastle United are back in action on Saturday.
Eddie Howe’s side continue their increasingly unlikely push for European qualification by way of the Premier League when they entertain Wolves at St James’ Park.
While it was promising to see Newcastle get back to winning ways during the week following their pitiful defeat at Arsenal on Saturday, the manner of their performance in the penalty shootout win against Blackburn was hardly convincing.
Things aren’t going particularly well defensively right now. The last 6 League games may have seen Howe’s side score 15 goals but they’ve somehow managed to concede 16.
Indeed, Wolves actually head to Tyneside on Saturday sitting above Newcastle in the table.
They were, however, dealt a blow on Wednesday.
Hwang Hee-Chan injury: Gary O’Neil shares Wolves latest
Speaking after his side beat Brighton in the FA Cup, Wolves boss Gary O’Neil appeared to rule forward Hwang Hee-Chan out of the game.
The South Korea international lasted just under an hour before he was replaced by reported Newcastle transfer target Pedro Neto.
After the full-time whistle, O’Neil told the Express and Star: “I’m disappointed we lost him, but I’m hopeful it’s not too serious. I’d be amazed if he plays at the weekend.”
It is a blow for Wolves, with the 28-year-old having scored ten goals – including one in the 2-2 draw with Howe’s side earlier this season – while registering three assists this year.
Newcastle vs Wolves: A worrying game for Eddie Howe
Though Wolves will surely be weaker without Hwang, Neto is a fearsome prospect. The Portugal international has nine assists this season and was impressive against Newcastle in the reverse fixture before his injury.
With Dan Burn out of form and Kieran Trippier having struggled at times, the idea of them trying to battle Neto down the flanks hardly inspires much confidence.
The defence is leaking. Wolves certainly appear to have the tools to get at Newcastle, albeit being without Hwang is a big blow.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
