Burnley’s woes have just gone from bad to worse ahead of their trip to St James’ Park today.
Scott Parker’s side have lost five in a row heading into this afternoon’s 3pm kick-off, and lost defender Axel Tuanzebe to injury earlier this week. But to make matters worse, they’ve now been hit with a suspension last night.
In an FA statement on Friday evening, it was confirmed that midfielder Hannibal Mejbri has been handed a four-match ban and a £15,000 fine after spitting at Leeds United supporters in their 1-0 win at Elland Road in September.
As for the early team news from Newcastle’s end, it sounds increasingly likely that Yoane Wissa will make the squad after he came through training on Friday and two behind-closed-doors practice games over the past week.
Then to the players that won’t be involved, Newcastle will be without the following five:
- Sven Botman (back) – Set to be assessed in “a week” following injections
- Nick Pope (groin) – Expected back in “two to three weeks”
- Kieran Trippier (hamstring) – Expected back around the “Christmas period”
- Emil Krafth (knee) – Also expected back around the “Christmas period.”
- Will Osula (ankle) – Still managing ankle pain after visiting specialist
In better news, Sandro Tonali’s midweek knock is considered minor, with the Italian given “every chance” of playing in today’s game after a scan.
