Newcastle United take on Chelsea this weekend without one of their key players as the race for Champions League qualification continues.
Joelinton will be absent once again when Newcastle United welcome Chelsea to St James’ Park on Sunday. The Brazilian suffered a knee injury in the build-up to the win over Ipswich Town and was unavailable for last weekend’s 1-1 draw at Brighton.
That hard-earned point at the Amex could prove significant in the top-four battle, especially with Chelsea closing the gap by beating champions Liverpool. But as the stakes continue to rise, Eddie Howe must cope without several senior players.
Newcastle injury news v Chelsea - Premier League
Jamaal Lascelles
- Status: Out
- Injury: ACL
- Expected return: Next season
- Notes: Scored in this fixture last season; ruled out with long-term injury
Lascelles is out for the rest of the season with an ACL injury. The club captain scored in this fixture last term but will play no part this weekend.
Matt Targett
- Status: Out
- Injury: Hamstring
- Expected return: Next season
- Notes: Has struggled with injuries all season.
Targett remains sidelined with a long-term hamstring injury and is not expected to return before the summer. The left-back has been plagued by fitness issues throughout the campaign.
Joelinton
- Status: Out
- Injury: Knee
- Expected return: Unknown (likely out for season)
- Notes: Missed last two games; major absence for Newcastle.
Joelinton’s season is effectively over after picking up a knee problem in training. The midfielder’s absence is a major blow for Howe, who has relied on the Brazilian’s physical presence and tactical versatility in big games.
Lewis Hall
- Status: Out
- Injury: Foot
- Expected return: Next season
- Notes: Required surgery; will not face former club Chelsea.
Hall, who is ineligible to face his parent club under normal loan rules, would not have featured regardless after undergoing foot surgery. His season is also over.