Newcastle United suffered a heartbreaking 3-2 defeat to Liverpool at St James’ Park, with youngster Rio Nguhoma scoring a last-minute winner for the visitors. But the result wasn’t the only blow for the Magpies.
Manager Eddie Howe is now facing a potential injury crisis after losing key midfielders Sandro Tonali and Joelinton during the match.
Tonali was forced off with what appeared to be a shoulder injury in the 66th minute and was replaced by Lewis Miley. Just ten minutes later, Joelinton went down awkwardly after a challenge from Ryan Gravenberch and seemed to suffer a leg injury. He was visibly emotional as he made his way off the pitch and was comforted by teammate Bruno Guimaraes.
Following the game, Howe shared a worrying update in interviews with beIN SPORTS and Sky Sports, saying both injuries “don’t look good” and could sideline the players for some time. He added that Tonali was in significant pain and the early signs for both players were concerning.
Newcastle’s injury woes didn’t stop there. Fabian Schar had to leave the field after a head collision with Virgil van Dijk, which likely rules him out of the next match due to concussion protocols. Meanwhile, Anthony Gordon will also be unavailable after receiving a red card following a VAR review for a dangerous challenge.
Despite fighting back from 2-0 down with goals from Bruno Guimaraes and a late equalizer by Will Osula Newcastle’s hopes were dashed in stoppage time by Nguhoma’s historic goal.
The Magpies now face Leeds United on Saturday, potentially without several key players.
