Newcastle to be without several defenders over festive period following latest injury blow | OneFootball

Eddie Howe is set to be without several of his key defenders for the festive period.

Dan Burn has become the latest player to be added to Newcastle’s injury list after suffering an injury to his ribs and lungs.

And the England defender is set to miss more than a month with the injury he suffered in the defeat to rivals Sunderland on Sunday.

“It was a big blow for us because I think he’s been excellent in recent weeks,” Howe said ahead of Newcastle’s Carabao Cup quarter final against Fulham.

“It’s a rib problem and an issue with his lungs so we wish him well, and it will be around four to six weeks out.”

Meanwhile, Sven Botman, Kieran Trippier and Emil Krafth also remain sidelined for the time being.

“The back line is an issue for us,” Howe admitted. “We don’t have many injuries but we have a concentrated group of players that all play in the same position.

“With Sven [Botman], we’re not entirely sure when he’ll return. He’s made good progress but he’s not ready to play yet. Emil Krafth and Kieran Trippier are still out and their target date will be around the new year we think.”