Newcastle could welcome major injury boost after international break

Newcastle United could emerge from the international break with a significantly stronger squad after Matthias Jaissle was forced to cope without nine players for the 2-1 victory over Hull City.

The Magpies’ injury problems became so severe that Jaissle had to include Academy players on his bench against Hull. However, several senior players are now expected to be available when Newcastle return to action against Coventry.

Nico Gonzalez, Dan Burn, Joelinton, Amar Dedic, Jacob Ramsey and Ewen Jaouen are all potentially in line to return, although uncertainty remains around Tino Livramento, Anthony Elanga and William Osula.

Gonzalez should be available after missing the Hull victory because of concussion protocols following the head injury he suffered against Leeds United.

Captain Burn is also expected back after spending the start of the season sidelined with an ankle injury, while vice-captain Joelinton is closing in on his return from a thigh problem.

Dedic’s absence against Hull was another significant blow after his impressive start following his summer move. Lewis Miley filled in at right-back, but Newcastle expect Dedic’s thigh problem to have cleared before the Coventry game.

Ramsey is similarly expected to recover from his thigh injury during the three-week break.

Young goalkeeper Jaouen should also return after rolling his ankle in training, having initially been expected to recover in time for the Hull match.

There is less certainty surrounding three other Newcastle players.

Livramento suffered another injury setback before the Hull victory, and his immediate availability remains unclear.

Elanga has missed Newcastle’s last two matches with a thigh injury and underwent an MRI scan to establish its severity. The club hope he will avoid a lengthy absence, but no return date has yet been established.

Osula could face the longest wait. The striker has been unavailable since suffering an ankle injury against Liverpool. Concerns over a serious long-term problem have been eased, although his absence could potentially continue into November.

After navigating the Hull game with nine players unavailable, the international break therefore arrives at an ideal time for Jaissle.

Newcastle have three weeks before facing Coventry, giving Jaissle valuable time to recover several important members of his squad.

Gonzalez, Burn, Joelinton, Dedic and Ramsey returning together would provide a considerable upgrade, while further updates will be needed on Elanga, Livramento and Osula.