£12 million man near return, Joe Willock update, and new concern before Fulham visit

Newcastle United’s injury crisis reached a new low amid fears Joelinton faces season-ending surgery, but there could be some relief coming Eddie Howe’s way over the next fortnight.

Jacob Murphy was back in light training last week and was described as “close” to returning by Eddie Howe during his pre-Man City press conference. With our next game (27th January) an FA Cup trip to Fulham, two weeks on from Howe’s comments, it’s hoped we will resume full contact training over the break.

It’s unclear when Callum Wilson will return – there’s an outside chance he makes our next league game at Aston Villa (30th January) – but there’s been positive signs from Joe Willock (Achilles) and Matt Targett (hamstring) over the past few days, with the former posting an “on the way back” message on social media as he and the left-back were filmed back in the gym (see video below).

One concern is Bruno Guimaraes, who felt tightness in his hamstring during Saturday’s 3-2 defeat to Man City. He was almost taken off and was visibly struggling to sprint during the second half of last weekend’s game.

Thankfully, the Brazilian will have had two weeks recovery time between the City defeat and next Saturday’s trip to Fulham, but Howe will be reluctant to take any risks now he is one of just THREE midfielders available for selection.