There is already a problem with one of Newcastle United’s summer signings

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Newcastle United’s 2023/24 season was ruined by injuries, and it is a problem that could drag into the 2024/25 campaign.

The Magpies have already suffered one major injury this summer, with Callum Wilson suffering from a back problem. Newcastle are now looking to sign a striker, with Alexander Isak once again the only fit and available centre-forward.

Elsewhere, Lewis Miley is out of action with a foot problem, while Sven Botman, Jamaal Lascelles and Matt Targett remain unavailable due to their injuries from the previous campaign.

Eddie Howe recently stated that Newcastle are suffering from a hangover when it comes to injuries, and those problems even extend to a player who has only just arrived on Tyneside.

Newcastle signed Lloyd Kelly from Bournemouth

Newcastle have made three signings this summer: Lloyd Kelly, Odysseas Vlachodimos and John Ruddy.

The latter two are backup goalkeepers, while the former is adding depth to Howe’s defensive line. Kelly received high praise from Howe when he arrived, and the 25-year-old will hope to become a starter at St James’ Park.

However, his main priority at the moment is getting fully fit.

Newcastle acting with caution when it comes to Kelly

Kelly did not feature in Newcastle’s first friendly out in Germany, and now the Chronicle have provided an update on the summer recruit.

According to the Chronicle, Newcastle are approaching with caution when it comes to the fitness of Kelly, Tino Livramento and Sean Longstaff. They add that all three are carrying issues heading into Saturday’s friendly against Hull City.

Livramento suffered an ankle injury at the end of last season, while it was also an ankle injury that plagued Longstaff for the majority of the 2024/25 campaign.

As for Kelly, he had his own fitness issues at Bournemouth. However, Newcastle have been confident that they can manage Kelly better.

This caution might be part of that approach, as Kelly has been seen taking some part in training since the start of pre-season. However, it is unknown how involved the former Bristol City defender has been.

Hopefully it is just a case of Newcastle being careful, and that might become clearer when the Magpies face Hull City on Saturday.

The match at the MKM Stadium is Newcastle’s first friendly in front of a crowd after a couple of behind closed doors games. After the Hull game, Eddie Howe and his team then head to Japan for two more friendlies.

Kelly will hope to be involved as much as possible, but that might depend on what his body allows. Regardless, it is certainly a concern so soon after his arrival from Bournemouth.