Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez has delivered a vital injury update on club quartet Mo Diame, Jonjo Shelvey, Karl Darlow and Joselu.
Shelvey and Diame will not be available for the clash against Manchester City on Tuesday despite being “very close”, while second choice goalkeeper Karl Darlow – who sustained an elbow injury a while ago – is making good progress in his setback and could be back next week.
Striker Joselu picked up an ankle injury in the 2-0 loss to Watford on Saturday, which means he will not be fit to face City at St James’ Park.
“The midfielders are very close but not ready (Shelvey and Diame). Darlow is getting better and will be fine next week. Joselu is not available who picked up an ankle injury,” he said, as quoted by Chronicle reporter Lee Ryder on his personal Twitter account.
Rafa on injuries: "The midfielders are very close but not ready (Shelvey and Diame). Darlow is getting better and will be fine next week. Joselu is not available who picked up an ankle injury." #nufc
— Lee Ryder (@lee_ryder) January 28, 2019
OPINION
The fact that midfield duo Diame and Shelvey are still not fit enough to return to action must be a major blow for Benitez. He is fast running out of options in midfield, and he will no doubt turn to Sean Longstaff to perform once again. While Diame has not had the best season so far – likewise with Shelvey – the fact they are both missing is not the news that Benitez needs. They both have a lot of quality, and it is a shame to see them affected so much by injury. Darlow looks like he will be back next week, although this should not be of a big concern considering that Martin Dubravka is the number one keeper. As for Joselu, it is safe to say that plenty of Newcastle fans will be ecstatic that he is sidelined for this game. He was woeful against Watford, and to see the back of him, even if it is only for one match, will be music to their ears.