The atmosphere at St. James’ Park on Sunday was a mix of excitement and tension, but it all turned to concern in the second half. The sight of defender Tino Livramento staying down on the pitch, and then being carefully carried off on a stretcher, is one that no Newcastle United fan wanted to see.
In that moment, the final score of the match against Arsenal suddenly felt less important. The immediate and pressing question on everyone’s mind was about the wellbeing of the young player, and just how serious his injury might be.
The specific nature of the incident, which involved his knee, is what caused the most worry. Livramento has a history with a major knee injury, having previously recovered from a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL.

For any athlete, but especially for one so young, the fear of re-injuring the same joint is a heavy burden. The way he left the field immediately suggested that this was not a minor knock, and that the club and player could be facing a significant period of recovery.
In the days since the match, the club has been going through the standard but anxious process of determining the full extent of the damage.
According to a report from Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie, Livramento has already undergone a scan. However, the situation is not yet completely clear.
The knee is still swollen, which is a normal reaction after such a trauma, but the swelling can sometimes make it difficult for medical staff to get a perfect picture right away.

Manager Eddie Howe has confirmed that they are in a waiting pattern, stating that they are “better off waiting” for the swelling to reduce before making a final assessment.
An official update from the club is expected in the coming days, which will hopefully provide some clarity.
This period of uncertainty is difficult for everyone involved. For the player himself, it is a frustrating and worrying time.
Livramento has been in fantastic form over the past couple of seasons, and his performances have put him in the conversation for a spot in the England squad ahead of the upcoming World Cup.
An injury now, especially a long-term one, could disrupt that momentum at the worst possible time. He will undoubtedly be desperate to get back on the pitch as soon as he can.
For the team, his potential absence is a major blow. Livramento has been a key figure in the defense this season, and his versatility has been a huge asset for Eddie Howe.
He has played effectively on both the right and left side of the defense, giving the manager valuable options. His ability to contribute in multiple positions makes him a unique and important player, and that kind of flexibility is not easy to replace.
In the short term, Newcastle will have to rely on their other options. The experienced Kieran Trippier is a natural replacement on the right, and players like Lewis Hall can also step in.
The team has the depth to manage, but they will miss Livramento’s specific energy and skill. For now, the entire Newcastle community is in a holding pattern, patiently waiting for the medical news.
They are hoping for the best possible outcome, that the injury is not as severe as it initially looked, and that their talented defender will be back in action sooner rather than later.