Newcastle United are set to be without Kieran Trippier and Emil Krafth for several more matches, leaving Eddie Howe short of full-back options during a demanding run of fixtures.
Although Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall have recently returned from injuries, the absences of Trippier and Krafth have kept Howe’s defensive resources stretched. Hall missed the start of the Burnley match through illness, prompting another start for Dan Burn at left-back before Hall came on in the second half of the 2-1 win at St James’ Park. Livramento, meanwhile, is being pushed to play every game despite only just returning from two months on the sidelines.
Newcastle now prepare for a Champions League trip to Bayer Leverkusen on Wednesday, followed by a Premier League visit to Sunderland on Sunday, before hosting Fulham in the Carabao Cup quarter-final. Trippier and Krafth are expected to miss all three, taking them to eight consecutive games out.
Howe praised Livramento’s resilience under the circumstances, saying the defender has handled the workload impressively but needs support as soon as reinforcements return. The head coach hopes Trippier may be back around Christmas to ease the pressure on that side of the pitch.
Hall’s situation is also being closely managed. Howe highlighted the 19-year-old’s strong performances when fresh but admitted fatigue has affected him late in games. He believes Hall’s technical quality and athleticism offer a different dimension from left-back, but warned that Newcastle must protect him to keep him available during such a congested schedule.
Trippier, currently recovering, addressed his setback in the club’s matchday programme. He explained that the injury occurred while taking a set piece in training and stressed he is focused on returning “as quickly and safely as possible”. The 35-year-old said he misses being on the pitch but is experienced enough to manage his rehabilitation professionally.
Newcastle will continue to rely on Livramento, Hall and Burn as they navigate a crucial stretch without two of their senior full-backs.