Paul Mitchell has given Eddie Howe a big dilemma to solve after bold Newcastle United decision

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Newcastle United took major risks during the January transfer window, as Paul Mitchell prepared for the future without protecting the present.

The Magpies did not strengthen their squad at all. In fact, Newcastle United became weaker.

Miguel Almiron was sold to Atlanta United, while Loyd Kelly also left St James’ Park. He was loaned to Juventus with an obligation to buy for £20million. It is proving to be a good move for the defender, with Kelly already making his Champions League debut.

While Kelly is playing in the Champions League, Newcastle United’s defensive shortcomings are on the brink of being exposed.

Eddie Howe has two injury issues ahead of Manchester City vs Newcastle United

After two fantastic cup wins, Newcastle United return to Premier League action this weekend. The Magpies travel to the Etihad Stadium to take on Manchester City, with Eddie Howe faced with a couple of injury issues.

Anthony Gordon is fit to face Manchester City, but the situation regarding Sven Botman and Dan Burn is less clear. Botman was forced off against Arsenal, while Burn was substituted during the win over Birmingham City.

According to the Daily Mail, both Botman and Burn are doubts for Saturday’s game against Man City.

The report adds that Emil Krafth is on standby to play alongside Fabian Schar.

Paul Mitchell’s Newcastle United transfer risk is already extremely clear

If Burn and Botman are unavailable this weekend, Eddie Howe will only have two senior centre-backs to choose from. Schar and Krafth will have to start, while they will have no understudies in reserve.

There probably won’t be any youth cover either, as both Alex Murphy and Charlie McArthur left the club on loan during the January transfer window.

These injury concerns sum up the risk that Paul Mitchell took in January. Selling Kelly helps Newcastle’s PSR position, but it leaves them extremely light at the back for the rest of the season.

Mitchell’s risk presents Howe with an issue, and there is no clear solution. All the manager can do is hope that Burn and Botman return as soon as possible, and do his best to ensure there are no more injury concerns.

However, that is easier said than done.