Eddie Howe has been hit with a couple of major injury problems ahead of Newcastle United’s game against Wolves.
The Magpies are back in Premier League action on Saturday, and were hoping to hand out debuts to both Yoane Wissa and Nick Woltemade. However, that will not be possible.
Ahead of the game, Eddie Howe has confirmed that Wissa will be unavailable due to injury. Therefore, Woltemade is poised to lead the line against Wolves.
There are also question marks surrounding the Magpies’ midfield. Jacob Ramsey is ruled out, but there is better news regarding Joelinton.
Joelinton is fit for Newcastle United vs Wolves
Joelinton was spotted at the Newcastle training ground this week, and it has now been confirmed that he is available to return after missing the Leeds game through injury.
“Joe has trained,” Howe said during his pre-match press conference.
“He’s been fit and available, he’s been out on the training pitch and is looking good. Really happy to welcome him back, such an important player.”
The 29-year-old suffered an injury during the defeat to Liverpool, but has returned to fitness on schedule to be available for Wolves.
That is great news, at a time when Newcastle have just lost a midfielder in Jacob Ramsey. The ankle injury he suffered in the Magpies’ previous game is going to rule him out until after the next international break.
Joe Willock should start for Newcastle United against Wolves
While Joelinton is fit to start, that does not mean that he should.
That is not a reflection on his ability, however. It is more about what is on the horizon for Newcastle, with Barcelona coming to town in a few days.
Every game is important for Eddie Howe, but that Barcelona clash in the Champions League is ginormous. He needs all of his top stars for that game, on what should be an intense night inside St James’ Park.
Newcastle’s success against Barcelona will depend on their press, and that is where Joelinton is so important. The Magpies need the Brazilian enforcer at his powerhouse best if they are to get a positive result against Hansi Flick’s side.
With that in mind, Howe should be cautious with Joelinton on Saturday. Given his recent history with injuries, Newcastle’s number seven should only be used off the bench. Instead, Howe should utilise his squad and give Joe Willock an opportunity to start.
The £25million midfielder has been with the Newcastle United squad throughout the international break, and will be desperate for an opportunity to make his first appearance of the season.
With Newcastle expected to have a lot of the ball against Wolves, they will need more creativity in and around the box. In that respect, Willock is more suited to start than Joelinton.
It will also ensure that big Joe is fresh for Barcelona, which is absolutely pivotal.
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