Alious
Newcastle United are gearing up for a crucial Premier League showdown against Crystal Palace at St. James’ Park tomorrow night, but both sides could be missing key personnel as the Magpies aim to build on their impressive 4-1 triumph over Manchester United.
That victory propelled Newcastle to fourth in the league standings, and a win on home turf could see them move into third place ahead of Nottingham Forest. Once again, Jason Tindall will take charge of the team in Eddie Howe’s absence. The Newcastle boss remains hospitalized, and though he’s still providing input remotely via text messages, there is currently no timeline for his return to the touchline.
Tindall will continue to be supported by coaching staff Stephen Purches, Simon Weatherstone, and former Luton Town boss Graeme Jones.
**Willock Returns, but Three Still Sidelined for Newcastle**
During his pre-match press conference, Tindall offered a positive update on Joe Willock, who is set to return after missing the last two fixtures due to concussion.
*”Joe’s now completed the concussion protocols and is available for selection again,”* said Tindall.
He also confirmed that no fresh injuries were sustained during the weekend clash against Manchester United, a welcome boost ahead of a busy run-in. Anthony Gordon, who made his return from a recent injury, also came through the match unscathed.
*”It was great to see Anthony back and contributing. Thankfully, we’ve had no new knocks and head into the Palace game with a clean bill of health among the matchday squad,”* Tindall added.
However, Newcastle will remain without three long-term absentees: Lewis Hall, Jamaal Lascelles, and Sven Botman.
**Crystal Palace Dealing with Multiple Doubts**
The injury situation is more complex for Crystal Palace. The Eagles will be without long-term injury victims Cheick Doucoure and Chadi Riad. In addition, midfielders Romain Esse and goalkeeper Matt Turner—both sidelined due to illness against Manchester City—are currently being monitored and face late fitness tests before the trip to Tyneside.
On a more positive note for Palace, both Marc Guehi and Eddie Nketiah are set to return to the squad after serving suspensions, providing a timely lift to Oliver Glasner’s side.
**Up to Seven Players Could Miss Out**
With three absentees confirmed for Newcastle and four Palace players either ruled out or doubtful, as many as seven players could miss Wednesday’s match.
The stakes are high for both teams: Newcastle are looking to strengthen their position in the top four, while Palace aim to pull further away from the relegation zone. The availability—or absence—of these key figures could have a significant impact on the outcome at St. James’ Park.
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