Newcastle United secured their place in the FA Cup fourth round after a grueling 3-3 draw, eventually triumphing over Bournemouth 7-6 on penalties. However, the victory came at a cost, leaving manager Eddie Howe concerned about the physical toll on his squad.
The match against Bournemouth was an "energy-sapping" affair, stretching Howe's resources "to their limit". The game went into extra time, adding to the fatigue ahead of a crucial Carabao Cup semi-final first leg against Manchester City. Howe acknowledged that the players had exerted themselves far more than desired, especially considering the upcoming match against Manchester City. While pleased to progress in the FA Cup, Howe admitted the immediate priority was to "count the cost" and find ways to refresh the team for the next challenge.
One immediate concern is the injury to Tino Livramento, who was forced off the field with a hamstring problem. Livramento's absence further compounds Newcastle's existing injury woes in defense. The Magpies are already without key players such as Dan Burn, who is recovering from a rib injury, and Jamaal Lascelles. Furthermore, Fabian Schär sustained an ankle injury in the midweek Premier League victory against Leeds United and is set to see a specialist for further assessment. While initial assessments suggest the injury may not be as severe as first feared, with a bone break seemingly avoided, ligament damage is suspected. Howe expressed hope that Schär would be back before the end of the season.
The defensive injury crisis has led to Newcastle scrapping plans to loan out Alex Murphy, highlighting the lack of options at the back. Murphy is now in contention to feature in the upcoming games, while Howe may also consider utilizing Lewis Miley as a centre-back, a role he filled against Leeds United following Schär's injury.
Despite the injury concerns, there was some positive news. Sven Botman has returned. However, Newcastle are still without attackers Anthony Elanga and Will Osula, who are recovering from ankle and knee injuries respectively, though there is hope they may return before the end of January.
The FA Cup fourth-round draw is scheduled to take place on Monday, January 12, with Newcastle United or AFC Bournemouth included as ball number 24. The draw will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1, discovery+, and the TNT Sports YouTube channel. Steven Gerrard and Joe Cole will conduct the draw. The fourth-round matches are scheduled for the weekend of February 14 and 15.
Newcastle's progression in the FA Cup, while welcome, has undoubtedly added to the strain on an already stretched squad. Howe faces a significant challenge in managing his resources effectively as they compete on multiple fronts.
