Newcastle's Burn sidelined for up to six weeks | OneFootball

Newcastle United defender Dan Burn is set for up to six weeks on the sidelines after picking up a rib injury and a related lung issue during Sunday’s derby loss to Sunderland, Eddie Howe has confirmed.

The 33-year-old was hurt in the first half following a clash with Nordi Mukiele, who was booked for the challenge. Burn initially tried to continue but was substituted shortly before the interval.

Howe revealed after the match that Burn was taken to hospital and had been “struggling to breathe at half-time”.

Speaking in Tuesday’s pre-match press conference, Howe added: “It was sort of under the radar really in terms of reviewing the game, the importance of Dan and losing him just for everything that he brings to the team. That was a big blow for us. I think he’s been excellent in recent weeks. So yeah, it’s a rib problem with some issue with his lungs. So we wish him well. It will be probably around four to six weeks (out).”

Burn has been a mainstay for Newcastle this season, starting 15 of their 16 Premier League matches — missing only one through suspension — and featuring from the outset in all six Champions League games.

With Sven Botman, Newcastle’s other left-footed centre-back, also unavailable due to a back injury, Howe is left with Malick Thiaw, Fabian Schär and Jamaal Lascelles as his senior options in central defence. The head coach acknowledged the strain on his squad.

“The backline is an issue for us,” Howe continued. “We have players out who all play in the same position. Our backline is looking vulnerable. Sven has made good progress but he is not ready to play yet. We have Emil Krafth and Kieran Trippier still out, with New Year a target date (to return).”

Howe also confirmed that goalkeeper Nick Pope — absent for the last five fixtures — is “not too far away” from returning and could rejoin the squad later this month.

Newcastle face Fulham in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday before welcoming Chelsea to St James’ Park on Saturday, followed by a Boxing Day trip to Manchester United.