Eddie Howe: Joelinton and Sandro Tonali injuries a ‘huge blow’ for Newcastle

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has confirmed that key midfielders Joelinton and Sandro Tonali suffered significant injuries during their 3-2 defeat to Liverpool, which he described as a "huge blow" for the team.

Tonali sustained an arm injury and had to leave the field, while Joelinton appeared to have tweaked his groin, with both players being forced off during the match. Howe expressed concern about the severity of their injuries, noting that Joelinton's situation "doesn't look great" and Tonali couldn't move his arm properly.

In addition to the injuries, Newcastle is facing other setbacks: Anthony Gordon is suspended for the next three matches after being sent off for violent conduct, and Fabian Schar suffered a concussion, further depleting the squad ahead of their upcoming match against Leeds United.

Howe is bracing for potential lengthy absences for Tonali and Joelinton, two of his first-choice midfielders, which could impact the team's performance, especially with Champions League commitments this season.

During the match, Jacob Ramsey and Malick Thiaw were introduced as substitutes, making their debuts for Newcastle, but Howe emphasized the challenge of managing a depleted squad amidst these issues.