Newcastle United were handed a fresh injury concern ahead of the Carabao Cup victory against Chelsea.
Jacob Murphy missed out on the matchday squad having come on as a substitute at Stamford Bridge on Sunday. Eddie Howe confirmed the winger has a hamstring issue, making him a doubt for Saturday’s Premier League clash at home to Arsenal.
“Jacob was missing because of a slight hamstring,” said Howe. He couldn’t play tonight, but we don’t think it’s anything serious.”
Howe made five changes from the defeat in West London with Lloyd Kelly ,Emil Krafth, Sean Longstaff, Joe Willock and Anthony Gordon replacing Tino Livramento, Dan Burn, Bruno Guimaraes, Miguel Almiron, Harvey Barnes.
Alexander Isak opened in the scoring in the 23rd minute before an own goal from Axel Diasi doubled the home side’s advantage a few moments later.
Isak was withdrawn for Will Osula on the hour-mark and appeared to be hobbling as he left the field but Howe is hoping the Swede will be fine for the weekend.
Howe said: “I hope he’s okay. I haven’t spoken to him yet, but fingers crossed that it’s nothing serious.”
Meanwhile, Gordon came through the tie unscathed after shaking off a groin complaint.
“He felt good,” said Howe. “We didn’t feel it was a serious one when he did it and he felt confident enough to play. I was pleased with his performance. I think there is still more to come from him but delighted he got through what he did.”
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