Newcastle United are sweating on the fitness of Sean Longstaff ahead of Sunday’s game against Arsenal.
Eddie Howe is hoping to welcome some key players back to his Newcastle squad for the match at St James’ Park, with Longstaff and Allan Saint-Maximin due to return from injury.
It was reported earlier in the week by the Telegraph that both players will train ahead of the game against the Gunners, but a new update from the club suggests that is yet to happen.
Sean Longstaff and Allan Saint-Maximin not seen in Newcastle training
Newcastle have released 25 training pictures from Thursday’s session on the club’s official website. The likes of Callum Wilson and Alexander Isak can be seen taking part, as they continue to battle each other for a place in the starting lineup.
There is also an appearance from Harrison Ashby, who is yet to make his senior Newcastle debut after arriving from West Ham in January.
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However, there are two players who are conspicuous by their absence – Longstaff and Saint-Maximin. Neither player can be spotted in the pictures that the club have released.
That is a concern ahead of Sunday’s game against Arsenal. It is particularly worrying that Longstaff is seemingly not back in training, as Howe will be desperate to recall him to the starting XI on Sunday.
The local lad was forced off with an ankle injury against Everton, after he received a tongue-lashing from Kieran Trippier during the game. It then forced him to miss Sunday’s 3-1 win over Southampton.
His absence from training will cast doubt over his chances of playing against Arsenal this weekend.
There is now also concern over Saint-Maximin, who has not been seen since the 5-1 win over West Ham last month. The £16.5million winger told fans earlier this week that he was back, but does not appear to have taken part in training on Thursday.
Hopefully Howe sheds some light on the duo’s situation on Friday, as the Newcastle manager prepares for his pre-match press conference.