Newcastle man already ruled out of pre-season through injury

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Given the protracted nature of last season with the World Cup, it’s strange to think just how quickly pre-season has rolled around.

Some of the Newcastle United squad returned to the club’s Benton training base on Sunday as Eddie Howe got back to work.

With games against Gateshead and Rangers to come before they head out to the United States all while the club continue to look for summer signings, it’s going to be a busy period.

Still, it seems Howe will be without one player in particular.

Emil Krafth expected to miss pre-season

Indeed, despite the fact Emil Krafth was spotted returning to training on Sunday, Howe provided a disappointing update.

Speaking to the club’s official YouTube channel, the head coach said: “Emil’s a little bit further back, so (he’s) doing well, making good progress, but we don’t anticipate seeing him during pre-season.”

With the Sweden international set to miss pre-season, it will mean the knee injury he picked up against Tranmere in the Carabao Cup last August will have ruled him out for an entire year.

Luckily for Newcastle, Harrison Ashby has been signed to back-up Kieran Trippier at right-back while the club reportedly chase the signing of Southampton youngster Tino Livramento.

Selling Krafth may now be difficult

While the 28-year-old impressed following Trippier’s injury just after signing in 2022, the club are reportedly yet to make a decision on his future.

With Ashby available and Livramento a target, perhaps the club aren’t happy with their options at right-back, which presumably spells bad news for Krafth.

Still, even despite the fact Newcastle are thought to be ready to turn their attentions to outgoings this summer, selling up may be difficult.

Despite Krafth’s form prior to his injury, a club coming in and offering money for a player who has missed so much football and with just a year to go on his deal hardly seems likely.

Though the Swede’s fitness is of the utmost importance, Newcastle might struggle to get him off the books even if they wish to.