Newcastle could be without £39m player against Manchester City on Saturday night

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Newcastle United have injury problems in attack ahead of their FA Cup clash with Manchester City on Saturday night.

The Magpies will be looking for a response following their dismal display against Chelsea, which they are following up with an unenviable trip to the Etihad Stadium.

Eddie Howe’s side have been given another incredibly tough draw, as they take on FA Cup holders Manchester City away from home.

And to make it even more challenging, Newcastle could be light of options out wide.

Anthony Gordon is a major doubt after being forced off with a knee injury against Chelsea, and Eddie Howe has also admitted that Harvey Barnes will ‘probably’ miss Saturday night’s game.

Eddie Howe provides injury update on Harvey Barnes

In an interview with the Shields Gazette, Howe provided an injury update on Barnes after he missed the defeat to Chelsea.

“Harvey against Wolves when he came on just felt a hamstring tightness,” he said.

“We’ve scanned the area and don’t think it’s bad, but it’s enough to keep him out tonight and probably against Manchester City.”

Newcastle short of attacking options ahead of Manchester City

Barnes was not involved at Stamford Bridge due to a hamstring problem, although the positive news is that it is only viewed as a ‘slight’ injury.

However, it looks like it is going to be enough to rule the £39million man out of Saturday’s game against Manchester City, which is a real blow – especially with Gordon possibly out.

If they are both unavailable, it will mean that Howe has to go with Miguel Almiron and Jacob Murphy out wide. The only other alternative is using Elliot Anderson on the left wing, which is where he played against Chelsea.

However, it might be deemed too early for the 21-year-old to be starting games after his return from a back injury.

The only saving grace is that the international break comes immediately after the FA Cup contest, so Barnes should hopefully be back to full fitness by the time we face West Ham United on March 30th.