Newcastle manager Eddie Howe will be praying that Ryan Fraser is passed fit to face Brentford on Saturday.
The Toon winger started on the right for the Magpies’ clash with West Ham, but didn’t see out the full 90 minutes.
After running his little socks off once again, Fraser was substituted with just over 10 minutes to go. At the time, it was unclear whether it was a muscle problem or just cramp.
After the game, Howe commented on Fraser. He told the Chronicle: “I don’t know at this moment in time.
“I think he said, as he was coming off the pitch, that his hamstring was a little bit sore but we’ll see.
“It could be a bit of fatigue or cramp in there.”
The 27-year-old is set to be assessed in the buildup to Saturday’s game – another relegation six-pointer away to Brentford.
Newcastle can’t be without Ryan Fraser at the moment
When Allan Saint-Maximin missed the game with West Ham it was a blow. However, we coped. Howe’s side were a bit more functional, but still posed a threat down the left with Jacob Murphy.
The Frenchman is reportedly expected to return to the squad this weekend, which is a huge bonus.
However, Howe might be more worried about the status of the pint-sized Scot on the other flank.
Fraser’s had an interesting Newcastle career. Nothing went right for him under Steve Bruce, and he looked like a player who would never succeed in black and white.
Alas, the change of manager has seen Fraser do a full 180. He’s suddenly a key player for the Magpies, with his work rate and endeavour down the right setting the tone.
If he isn’t fit to face Brentford, it would be a huge miss. Having Saint-Maximin back would be excellent for those individual moments of magic, but Fraser’s fitness might be more crucial for the team as a whole.
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