Eddie Howe has confirmed that Newcastle United will continue to be without Kieran Trippier and Emil Krafth, leaving the squad short of full-back options heading into a congested run of fixtures, including Sunday’s derby against Sunderland.
Although Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall have recently returned from injury, the absence of both senior right-backs has reduced the Magpies’ defensive depth. Hall was expected to start against Burnley, but illness meant Dan Burn began at left-back before Hall came on during the second half of the 2-1 win at St James’ Park. Livramento, back from a two-month layoff, is currently being relied upon to start every game.
With matches against Bayer Leverkusen, Sunderland, and Fulham all coming within the space of a week, Howe admitted that rotation will be minimal. He said Livramento is coping well despite the demands, adding that neither Trippier nor Krafth is close to returning, though there is hope that Trippier might be available around Christmas to help ease the load.
Hall’s minutes are also being managed carefully. Howe praised his recent performances but noted that fatigue has crept in late during matches, stressing the need to guide him through a busy schedule to keep him fit for the coming weeks.
Trippier, recovering from a training-ground injury, wrote in his programme notes that his rehab is progressing positively, emphasising his determination to return as soon as possible without rushing the process.
With two experienced full-backs unavailable, Howe will again lean heavily on Livramento and Hall — something Sunderland will be well aware of ahead of the derby.
Sunderland head coach Régis Le Bris, meanwhile, has confirmed that Habib Diarra is unlikely to make the fixture as he continues to recover from groin surgery. Reinildo, however, is expected to return after missing the loss to Manchester City. Granit Xhaka and Noah Sadiki will also be available after avoiding suspension, with Le Bris withdrawing both late in the game to protect them for the derby. He explained that he opted against using Dan Neil in order to keep attacking momentum, pushing Lutsharel Geertruida into midfield in search of a breakthrough.