Isak, Botman, Krafth: Newcastle United injury latest and return dates ahead of Liverpool clash

The promise of three consecutive wins prior to the international break seems to be rapidly disappearing for Newcastle United after after the Magpies claimed just one point from games against West Ham United and Crystal Palace.

After seeing off Chelsea in the Carabao Cup and taking maximum points from Premier League games against Nottingham Forest and Arsenal, Eddie Howe’s men had high hopes of boosting their bid for a return to European competition ahead of two games against sides struggling at the wrong end of the table. However, a dismal performance in their 2-0 home defeat against West Ham and a laboured display in Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Palace have ensured the Magpies are struggling for momentum as they head into Wednesday night’s clash with current leaders Liverpool.

Howe did receive some positive news ahead of Saturday’s trip to Selhurst Park as Joe Willock and Bruno Guimaraes shook off injuries and they will be available once again as United prepare to host the Premier League’s most in-form side. However, there are still some major concerns ahead of the meeting with Arne Slot’s men - and the main one is over his current top goalscorer.

Alexander Isak

There was a major concern for the Magpies during the draw at Selhurst Park after top goalscorer Isak hobbled out of the action midway through the first-half with what appeared to be a hip injury. However, Howe moved to calm some fears about the injury, saying after the game, Howe said: “It was a contact injury, not a muscle pull, which is good news for us. We hope he will recover quickly, but at this moment, I don't know.” Predicted return date: Unknown.

Sven Botman

The Dutch defender suffered a serious knee injury last season and has not appeared since the Magpies faced Manchester City in the FA Cup quarter-final in March. Botman has been working hard to return to full training in recent weeks and there are some hopes he could appeared for the Magpies before the end of the month. Predicted return date: Late December.

Jamaal Lascelles

Much like Botman, Lascelles suffered a serious knee injury that brought a premature end to his involvement during the second half of last season. The Magpies club captain is a little behind his fellow centre-back but could be back in late January. Speaking in October, he said: “I should be back on the grass soon and jogging in the next few weeks. It'll take me a while to build up from there, but I'm happy to be ticking those boxes, and now it's about getting my boots back on and progressing slowly that way.” Predicted return date: January 2025.

Emil Krafth

Krafth will be out of action until the new year after he underwent an operation on a shoulder injury. Speaking last month, Howe said: “Emil has had an operation. We anticipate he’s going to be out for six to eight weeks. It’s a big blow to us to lose Emil, who has been such a consistent performer.” Predicted return date: Early January 2025.