Newcastle United’s difficult run with injuries continues to deepen, just days into the international break, adding yet another setback to Eddie Howe’s growing list of concerns. The club, already stretched thin by absences, is now facing another major blow that could further complicate their already packed schedule as the year draws to a close.
Anthony Gordon recently withdrew from the England squad due to a hip issue, while Nick Pope and Joelinton have both sustained fresh injuries over the past few days.
Each absence has been a heavy hit to a Newcastle side trying to regain form and stability after a disappointing defeat to Brentford before the break. Unfortunately, the injury troubles have only escalated, with another forward now set to spend time on the sidelines, creating even more challenges for Howe as he navigates an unforgiving run of fixtures.
Between now and the end of December, Newcastle will play 11 matches across all competitions a stretch that could define their season. Key clashes await against European giants Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League, along with Premier League meetings against Manchester United, Manchester City, and Chelsea.
Every game in that run demands energy, depth, and consistency three things that become harder to sustain when injuries keep mounting.
The latest setback comes in the form of young striker William Osula, who has been forced to withdraw from Denmark’s national team ahead of their upcoming fixtures against Belarus and Scotland.
The Danish Football Association confirmed Osula’s withdrawal and announced that experienced forward Yussuf Poulsen has been called up to replace him.
National team coach Brian Riemer acknowledged the change, stating, “Yussuf has a huge amount of experience and has previously kicked Denmark to the World Cup and European Championship finals.
He can change games with his pressing, his presence in the box, and he is always ready to fight until the blood spurts. That determination will be a decisive factor for us.” While Riemer did not disclose the exact details of Osula’s injury, the news leaves Newcastle anxiously awaiting further updates.
Osula, who joined Newcastle in the summer, was the subject of considerable transfer interest from several clubs but decided to stay at St James’ Park.
His decision to remain was influenced by the injury to Yoane Wissa, who was expected to be out for an extended period. Ironically, Osula’s own injury now adds to the club’s growing list of unavailable attacking options.
Meanwhile, Wissa, who previously played for Brentford, has yet to make his debut for Newcastle since completing his move. However, there is optimism that he could return in time for the Africa Cup of Nations, where he is expected to be called up by the DR Congo national team.
His potential involvement in that tournament could present another selection headache for Howe, who will lose the player just as he may be regaining match fitness.
With so many players unavailable, the burden up front now falls heavily on Nick Woltemade, one of the few fit attacking options left in the squad. The young striker will likely be tasked with leading the line during this demanding period, a challenge that could either make or break his growing reputation in English football.
Newcastle’s injury woes have become a recurring theme this season, testing both the team’s depth and Howe’s tactical flexibility. The manager has remained composed under pressure, but there’s little doubt the situation is frustrating.
Every setback chips away at the rhythm and chemistry he’s worked hard to build since taking over the club.
The timing couldn’t be worse. The festive period in English football is notorious for its intensity, and clubs with thin squads often struggle to cope. For Newcastle, already competing on multiple fronts, maintaining competitiveness with a depleted squad will require resilience, smart rotation, and perhaps a touch of good fortune.
The fans, though disappointed by the growing injury list, will be hoping that Howe’s man-management and Newcastle’s fighting spirit can keep them afloat until reinforcements arrive.
As the team prepares to enter the busiest stretch of the season, the message from the manager will likely be clear unity, discipline, and determination must carry them through this storm.
At a time when every game matters, every absence feels heavier. Newcastle’s fight for consistency now depends on how quickly key players recover — and how effectively Howe can adapt with what he has left.
