The Northern Echo journalist Scott Wilson has shared the latest injury blow for Newcastle United regarding striker Chris Wood.
The Lowdown: Attacking injuries
Magpies number nine Callum Wilson has been absent for the team's last five Premier League games after suffering from a hamstring injury. This left new signing Alexander Isak to step up to the plate in his absence, with the £63m arrival scoring twice in the subsequent three games.
However, whilst on international duty with Sweden, the 22-year-old was withdrawn due to an unspecific issue for which he was deemed medically unfit to play against Serbia and Slovenia.
The Latest: Wood’s injury
With Newcastle’s first two strikers out of action, this leaves just Wood as a centre-forward at Eddie Howe’s disposal. However, Scott Wilson has now revealed another major injury blow for Newcastle.
Taking to Twitter, the journalist claimed: “#NUFC's attacking injury problems continue to mount - with Chris Wood having been forced off in first half of New Zealand's defeat to Australia because of a rib problem. Alexander Isak left Sweden squad last week after injury setback....”
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The Verdict: Hopefully Wilson can return…
Having arrived at St James’ Park in January, Wood was one of the reasons that the Magpies ensured their Premier League safety after a prior relegation scare.
The New Zealand international made 17 appearances for the Tynesiders in the second half of last season, weakening relegation rivals Burnley with his move to the northeast.
Whilst his position in the team was never going to be permanent, the 30-year-old has still played seven times in the league this season, coming off the bench on six occasions.
However, following Wood’s injury, Howe will be hoping that Wilson can make it back to full fitness in time for Saturday’s clash against Fulham. If not, it could be a case of Joelinton needing to revert to a number nine role from his now-favoured central midfield position.