Eddie Howe: Kieran Trippier unlikely to return for Newcastle before Christmas

The defender has been sidelined since November with a hamstring injury, and manager Eddie Howe has confirmed that neither Trippier nor Emil Krafth is expected to feature before Christmas.

Trippier's unavailability has forced Tino Livramento into an unbroken run of matches, adding further strain to an already stretched back line.

Newcastle face four matches in the space of two weeks, with tonight's Champions League clash against Bayer Leverkusen marking their third fixture in that congested period.

Injuries throughout the squad mean several defenders will be denied rest during the festive run, increasing the importance of managing minutes carefully.

In Europe, Newcastle currently sit 15th in the Champions League table, a position that would send them into the play-offs for entry into the knockout stage.

Bayer Leverkusen, meanwhile, are 20th, making the tie appear relatively balanced on paper despite both sides dealing with fitness issues.

"I think they [Trippier and Emil Krafth] won't be back sort of any time soon. In a sense of the next few games, anyway," said Howe.

"We hope to get them back towards the Christmas period." 

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