Alan Pardew’s hopes of enhancing his job security while presiding over a revival at Newcastle United have not been improved by the news that Tim Krul has undergone a scan to assess the seriousness of an elbow injury.
The Dutch goalkeeper has been one of Pardew’s most reliable performers this season and, with Newcastle still seeking a first Premier League win of the campaign, the manager could have done without him damaging an arm with Holland.
Krul was on the bench as Holland defeated Kazakhstan 2-1 on Friday but flew straight home after hurting the elbow during training on Saturday.
A club statement released on Monday evening said: “Newcastle United can confirm that Tim Krul has returned from international duty after suffering an elbow injury. The Dutch goalkeeper has now been assessed by the Magpies’ medical staff and underwent a scan on Monday.”
The results are expected in the next day or so but Krul looks almost certain to miss the match against Leicester City at St James’ Park on Saturday, when Rob Elliot is expected to deputise. Yet with his back four having proved highly vulnerable this season, Pardew has reason to fear a longer lay-off.
