Newcastle struggling with defensive injury crisis ahead of Chelsea fixture

The Magpies' squad has been stretched in recent weeks, with defensive options particularly depleted. That situation was underlined on Wednesday evening when Newcastle beat Fulham 2-1 in their Carabao Cup quarter-final but finished the match with only two senior defenders on the pitch.

Kieran Trippier and Emil Krafth have both been sidelined since the November international break. Trippier is recovering from a hamstring problem, while Krafth is nursing a knee injury, with both players not expected to return until around the New Year.

Sven Botman has also been absent for nearly a month due to a back problem, and his return date remains unclear.

Dan Burn is facing a spell on the sidelines after suffering a fractured rib and punctured lung during last Sunday's Tyne-Wear derby defeat to Sunderland. The defender is expected to be out for between four and six weeks.

Lewis Hall missed the win over Fulham with a hamstring issue but could potentially be involved against Chelsea, offering Howe a timely boost. Jamaal Lascelles is also being monitored and may be available for selection.

However, Newcastle suffered a further setback on Wednesday when Tino Livramento sustained a knee injury in the second half against Fulham, leaving his availability uncertain.

"The back line's an issue for us. We don't have many injuries but we have a concentrated group of players that are out who all play the same position and whenever you get that you're stretched. So our back line is looking vulnerable," said Howe.

"With Sven, we're not entirely sure when he'll return. He's made good progress but I don't think he's ready to play yet. And then we've got Emil Krafth, Kieran Trippier still out Their target date will sort of be around the new year we think.

"The importance of Dan and losing him just for everything that he brings to the team, that was a big blow for us. I think he's been excellent in recent weeks

"It's a rib problem with some issue with his lungs. So we wish him well. It will be probably around four to six weeks." 

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