Eddie Howe will be forced into a roll call ahead of the trip to Chelsea on Sunday. The Newcastle United boss is already without goalkeeper Nick Pope and the likes of Jamaal Lascelles, Joe Willock and Matt Ritchie.
But he has also lost the services of Joelinton and Javier Manquillo ahead of the Stamford Bridge clash. Speaking today Howe said: “It was always the plan to get Nick’s operation done to give him more time to get ready for next season.
“He’s played through various finger dislocations in training and games. He’s always played through.
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“But it was a problem that needed clearing up for his own benefit. I’m delighted it’s done.”
Howe also confirmed that Manquillo and Joelinton are out with knock, and said he will look to give Martin Dubravka his chance.
Howe said: “I hope his future is here. I rate him highly and always have done.
“It’s just we had the chance to get Nick. If Martin was to stay he would get regular football.”
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