Eddie Howe one game away from Newcastle United nightmare as key duo walk suspension tightrope

Newcastle United endured a disappointing afternoon at the Etihad Stadium last weekend as Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City cruised to a dominant 4-0 victory.

Omar Marmoush, a recent addition to the City squad, delivered a standout performance with a hat-trick, leaving the Magpies with plenty to reflect on. The result dealt a blow to Newcastle’s ambitions for Champions League qualification, underscoring the disparity in squad depth compared to their opponents.

Eddie Howe has navigated a challenging season, juggling injuries and a lack of depth, which highlights the remarkable job he has done despite recent setbacks.

Key players were notably absent from the clash, including Sven Botman, Joelinton, and Jamaal Lascelles, further complicating Newcastle’s efforts to compete at the highest level. Botman, who has been sidelined for an extended period, suffered a setback in his recovery and remains unavailable.

While his return is expected sooner than the others, Howe has expressed caution, prioritizing the player’s long-term fitness.

Joelinton, meanwhile, is anticipated to rejoin the squad before the Carabao Cup final, providing a much-needed boost. Lascelles, on the other hand, is targeting a return next month. However, Joelinton’s availability comes with complications.

The Brazilian midfielder is walking a disciplinary tightrope with nine yellow cards this season, putting him one caution away from a two-match suspension under Premier League regulations.

According to the FA’s rules, any player who accumulates 10 bookings in the first 32 league matches faces a suspension, creating an additional challenge for Howe as he navigates the season’s critical stages.

Injury concerns may temporarily ease the risk of suspension for Joelinton, but other players in the squad also face similar issues. Dan Burn is nearing the suspension threshold, having received seven yellow cards in 25 games.

If Burn collects three more bookings before Newcastle’s 32nd game, he too will face a two-match ban. Fabian Schar and Sandro Tonali have each been booked five times this season, while Bruno Guimaraes sits on four.

Lewis Hall has received three yellow cards, with Anthony Gordon, Sean Longstaff, and Jacob Murphy each picking up two.

The suspension deadline for 10 yellow cards coincides with Newcastle’s clash against Crystal Palace at St James’ Park on April 16. Howe must manage his squad carefully to mitigate the risk of losing key players during a crucial stretch of the campaign.

Balancing the demands of a competitive Premier League season with the club’s ambitions in cup competitions remains a significant challenge for the Newcastle boss.

Despite the setbacks and disciplinary concerns, Newcastle’s progress this season reflects Howe’s ability to maximize his resources. The squad’s performance has been commendable in light of injuries and the demanding fixture schedule.

However, the lack of squad depth compared to the league’s top teams continues to pose difficulties as the Magpies push for a top-four finish and a return to Champions League football.

With key players nearing a return and the suspension deadline in sight, Howe’s strategic management in the coming weeks will be pivotal to Newcastle’s success.