Newcastle United were dealt yet another injury blow as Joelinton was forced off during the 3-0 win over Sunderland on Saturday.
The Brazilian played a key role in Newcastle's opening goal at the Stadium of Light with his cross into the box being turned in by Sunderland's Dan Ballard. But shortly after Alexander Isak made it 2-0, Joelinton couldn't continue due to a thigh injury picked up in the first half.
"One negative is the injury to Joelinton," Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe said afterwards. "He felt his thigh switching play. We don’t know what that looks like yet."
Kieran Trippier returned from a groin issue for the match but Joelinton is a doubt for Newcastle's next Premier League game against Manchester City at St James' Park next weekend (5:30pm kick-off). But several other members of The Magpies squad have already been ruled out.
Howe will be hoping to have some key players back available for the trip to Aston Villa at the end of the month. Newcastle have been dealt several long-term injury blows this season to important players in their first-team squad.
Here is Newcastle United's current injury list and expected return dates ahead of the upcoming fixture against Manchester City...
1. Fabian Schar (arm)
Fabian Schar left the pitch clutching his arm following Newcastle's 2-2 draw with AFC Bournemouth. Eddie Howe said he was hopeful the issue wasn't serious. Expected return: Arsenal (A) - 24/02
2. Alexander Isak (groin)
Newcastle's top scorer was forced off during Tuesday's 3-1 win at Aston Villa with a groin issue. Eddie Howe said the player was 'very close' after missing the Bournemouth match. Expected return: Arsenal (A) - 24/02
3. Joe Willock (Achilles)
Willock has reaggravated an Achilles injury and missed the win over Chelsea in November. Howe described the setback as a ‘massive blow’ and has since been ruled out for almost three months. He is close to a return. Expected return: Arsenal (A) - 24/02
4. Matt Targett (hamstring)
Matt Targett has been on the sidelines after picking up a hamstring injury in the opening minutes of Newcastle’s 3-0 Carabao Cup win against Manchester United. The left-back had surgery on his hamstring in November and given a three month recovery time. Howe has since confirmed Targett is back on the grass and expected to return to training later this month. Expected return: Wolves (H) - 02/03