Newcastle United could be handed a timely lift on the injury front as they prepare for a tough Boxing Day trip to face Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Eddie Howe and his coaching staff have been dealing with a long list of absentees in recent weeks, but there is growing hope that one or two key names could soon return to action and strengthen the squad at a crucial point in the season.
The biggest boost may come in goal, where Nick Pope is edging closer to a comeback. The England international has not featured since late November, when his mistake proved costly in Newcastle’s 2–1 Champions League defeat away to Marseille.
That night put Pope firmly under the spotlight, with pressure mounting ahead of the following league match at Everton. Many expected Howe to make a change and hand Aaron Ramsdale a start, but events took that decision out of the manager’s hands when Pope suffered a groin injury in training.
Since then, Pope has missed seven matches in all competitions. During that period, Newcastle have largely held their own, losing just once with Ramsdale between the posts.
However, the former Arsenal goalkeeper is still waiting for his first clean sheet in a Newcastle shirt, and there is a feeling that Pope’s experience and authority could make a difference, especially in difficult away fixtures.
Speaking ahead of the Manchester United game, Howe offered a cautiously positive update on Pope’s condition. He confirmed that the goalkeeper has yet to return to full training but could do so very soon.
Howe made it clear that no risks will be taken, but the possibility of Pope being involved against United is not ruled out. That leaves Newcastle with an interesting decision to make, as Howe will have to weigh Pope’s fitness against Ramsdale’s recent run in the side.
While Pope’s situation is being closely monitored, he is not the only player nearing a return. Sven Botman is also moving in the right direction after a frustrating spell on the sidelines. The Dutch defender has not played since November after receiving an injection in his back, an issue that has required careful management.
Although the Boxing Day trip may come a little too soon, there is optimism that Botman could be back around the turn of the year.
Howe explained that Botman is part of a small group of players who are progressing well in their recovery. While he has not yet trained with the main group, the signs are encouraging, and the manager suggested that the defender is not far away from being available again.
His return would be a major boost for Newcastle, who have had to reshuffle at the back due to injuries and suspensions.
Botman could soon be joined by Kieran Trippier and Emil Krafth, both of whom are also working their way back. Having more defensive options would ease the burden on players who have been forced to play through a packed schedule and could help Newcastle regain some much-needed stability at the back.
There was also an update on Tino Livramento, whose injury initially caused real concern among supporters. The full-back picked up a knee problem during Newcastle’s 2–1 Carabao Cup quarter-final win over Fulham last week.
Given Livramento’s history with knee injuries, fears of a long absence quickly followed. However, the early signs are more positive than first feared.
Howe admitted that the situation with Livramento is complex, with a lot of information still being reviewed. Newcastle are waiting for full clarity before making any firm statements, but the hope inside the club is that the injury is not serious.
If that proves to be the case, Livramento could be back in training sooner rather than later, which would be a huge relief given Newcastle’s current lack of options at full-back.
The manager stressed that the club wants to be absolutely certain before confirming anything, but there is quiet optimism that good news will follow.
For a player who has been one of Newcastle’s standout performers this season, avoiding a lengthy spell on the sidelines would feel like a small victory in itself.
As Newcastle head to Old Trafford searching for just their second away league win of the campaign, these injury updates provide a sense of cautious hope.
Even if not everyone returns immediately, the fact that several key players are getting closer to fitness could make a big difference in the weeks ahead. With fixtures coming thick and fast, Howe will welcome any boost he can get as his side look to maintain momentum and climb the Premier League table.
