Burn worry, Pope chance: Newcastle United injury update and return dates

Newcastle United enter a crucial week under pressure and under-staffed, as Eddie Howe prepares his side for Wednesday’s Carabao Cup quarter-final against Fulham with a stretched squad and a growing list of injury concerns.

What should have been an opportunity to rotate and refresh his side after last week’s morale-boosting derby victory over Sunderland has instead become a selection headache. Sunday’s 1–0 loss at the Stadium of Light not only damaged confidence — it further depleted Howe’s defensive options at a time when Newcastle can least afford it.

With four senior defenders already unavailable, and injuries mounting across multiple positions, Howe must navigate both Fulham and Chelsea this week with a patched-together squad. Here is the full breakdown of Newcastle’s injury situation and when key players might return.

Injury: Rib/lung damage

Dan Burn was forced off in the first half of the Wear-Tyne derby after a heavy collision with Nordi Mukiele. Initial fears were confirmed as medical scans revealed a fractured rib and associated lung damage. Howe admitted the defender was in significant discomfort during the break.

“He was struggling to breathe at half-time. It was a big problem. He has gone to the hospital for a check of his ribs.”

There is currently no suggested timeframe for his return. The nature of the injury means he will be out for an extended period.

Expected return: Unknown

Injury: Back

Newcastle are hopeful that injections received last week will ease Botman’s back flare-up, but recovery will not be rushed. The club remain cautious as they wait for the treatment to take effect.

“Sven has had an injection in his back. We hope that will bring about his return quickly.” If his progress continues, Botman could be back before the end of December.

Expected return: Late December

Injury: Groin

There was optimism that Pope might return for the derby, but the goalkeeper was again absent. His initial target had been Boxing Day vs Manchester United, though Howe now suggests a slightly earlier comeback is possible.

“Nick is the closest of all the players who are currently out… but we’ll have to see.” He remains under assessment but is edging toward a return.

Expected return: Manchester United (26 December)

Injury: Hamstring

Trippier has been sidelined for several weeks and will not return until the new year. Scans confirmed a hamstring issue that requires around a month of recovery. His absence continues to limit Newcastle’s experience and leadership in wide defensive areas.

Expected return: Early January

Injury: Ankle/foot

Osula had impressed earlier in the season, but a persistent ankle issue forced Newcastle to pause his workload. Although scans showed no major damage, the club opted to manage his minutes carefully.

“It’s not a serious injury… we expect it to be weeks.”

He will not return until the new year.

Expected return: January

Injury: Groin

Joelinton suffered a groin problem during the Champions League match at Leverkusen. Although he made the bench at Sunderland, Howe opted not to use him. His involvement against Fulham will depend on how he responds to a week of rest.

“It looks a groin issue… I don’t know how serious it is.” There is cautious optimism he will be available.

Expected return: Fulham (17 December)

Newcastle’s season has featured long stretches of adversity, but this injury spell may be the most destabilising yet. Losing both Burn and Botman simultaneously exposes vulnerabilities that Howe has worked hard to shield. Although some argue Newcastle should cope better given recent investment, it is worth noting that stability in central defence is often the foundation of Howe’s system.

The return of Pope would offer reassurance, while Joelinton’s availability could restore physicality in midfield. But until the defence returns to full strength, Newcastle may need to rely on smaller margins, squad improvisation and tactical caution.

This week’s fixtures — Fulham in the Carabao Cup and Chelsea in the Premier League — will provide a sharp test of their resilience.

Newcastle host Fulham at St James’ Park on Wednesday, 17 December in the Carabao Cup quarter-final before welcoming Chelsea on 20 December in the Premier League.

👉 Newcastle fans — which returning player do you think will make the biggest difference over Christmas?