Eddie Howe is sweating on the fitness of midfielder Bruno Guimaraes ahead of the trip to Liverpool on Saturday evening.
The midfielder missed the defeat against Aston Villa last weekend with an ankle injury and was an unused substitute in the draw against Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday.
The Newcastle captain trained with the squad on Thursday, but Howe is remaining understandably cautious in throwing him back into the squad.
Newcastle Injury Update
Howe added that they will decide on Friday as to whether Guimaraes can feature against the Premier League holders.
He said: “It’s slightly unknown at the moment. He did really well to be with us in Paris – that was down to the fact that he was desperate to support the players.
“He did very, very light training. He trained with us yesterday, but that was more of a test, so we’ll see how he is today. This will be where we decide (for tomorrow).”
The Toon boss may have a selection dilemma on his hands in midfield with Joelinton also ruled out.
Joelinton suffered a setback from a recurring groin issue against Aston Villa, and there were major concerns that he would be sidelined for a couple of months.
However, Howe has eased those worries and said: “He flew on to Barcelona after the game to get an injection in his groin. It was good news. The specialist feels he only needs one injection and that means his return could be quite quick and we’re looking at weeks, not months.
“Unsure of the exact date yet, but it’s positive news.”
Tino Livramento Comeback Date
Tino Livramento’s injury-disrupted season continues to hamper his progress, having missed the last two league matches with a hamstring issue.
The defender has missed 10 league matches this season with knee and hamstring issues.
Howe confirmed Livramento will face another five or six weeks on the sidelines before he can be considered for selection.
“He’s doing well. I believe he’s having a scan today – a second scan to see the progress of his hamstring,” Howe added.
“Fingers crossed it’s good news and if it is, he’ll be back out running.
“We’re still probably five to six weeks away and we’re looking at an early March return, providing everything goes well.”
Managers Under Pressure
Both teams head into the clash desperate for a victory, with the two managers coming under scrutiny.
Newcastle are struggling to juggle its domestic and European campaigns and currently sit in ninth, five points adrift of Manchester United, who occupy fourth spot.
The pressure continues to ramp on Slot’s shoulders, and he’s now the favourite in the Premier League sack race.
It’s set to be a tight affair, according to the Liverpool vs Newcastle best bets based on statistics.
