Newcastle United’s FA Cup exit on Sunday was a bruising day for the Magpies, who in addition to being dumped out by Brighton & Hove Albion, have picked up several selection concerns ahead of the Carabao Cup final against Liverpool in two weeks' time.
The biggest, of course, is Anthony Gordon, who was sent off for violent conduct following a clash with Jan Paul van Hecke where the Newcastle winger raised his hands. That will result in an automatic three-match ban across domestic competitions, assuming an appeal isn’t successfully lodged by the club.
“I need to review it properly before forming my opinion,” was Howe’s post-match verdict on the matter. "If that [a ban] is the case I am so disappointed for him and the team. Knowing the player I know there is no malice intended there.”
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There was further disappointment with Alexander Isak replaced in the 86th minute at St James’ Park and he appeared to be limping as he made way off, just days after missing the 2-0 Premier League defeat against Liverpool with a groin issue.
“It was just general tiredness, I don't think there is a problem there,” said Howe. “But as I said before the game, if he was fit he would play. Fingers crossed he is okay.”
The Newcastle boss also revealed Tino Livramento was ‘suffering with cramp’, while stating Kieran Trippier had to be replaced against Brighton due to a back injury. Full-back is quickly becoming a concern for Newcastle, who was without Lewis Hall on Sunday.
“Lewis has a foot problem, ankle problem after the Liverpool game,” said Howe. “He did not really recover well after the game so he has been to see a specialist after a scan. We are awaiting further news.”
In a busy post-match injury round-up, the former Bournemouth boss said Sven Botman was ‘was close but didn't feel 100 percent’. Newcastle is also without the injured Jamaal Lascelles, who will definitely miss the Carabao Cup final due to a long-term knee injury.
It's a remarkable turn of events for Newcastle, who approached the midweek game against Liverpool with three injury concerns (Botman, Lascelles and Joelinton) but now has six, in addition to suspended Gordon. The return of Joelinton was one positive note on an otherwise dismal day for Newcastle.
It had started so well with Isak netting from the penalty spot, but ex-Newcastle man Yankuba Minteh leveled the score before half-time. Both teams were reduced to 10 men before the end of 90 minutes - with Tariq Lamptey dismissed for Brighton - before Danny Welbeck's 114th-minute winner in extra-time ensured the Seagulls moved onto the quarter-finals of the FA Cup.
