Toon Army fans here in the Tavern are becoming increasingly worried about their super captain potentially falling foul to an injury.
Newcastle’s woes continue as an injury crisis has struck upon Tyneside. Having already seen Christian Atsu, Matt Ritchie and Mikel Merino sit out, it looks as if it’s been topped with the biggest blow yet.
Captain and leader Jamaal Lascelles was been forced out with an ankle injury after their 1-0 defeat to Bournemouth and it’s unclear as to whether or not the defender will be back in action for the Manchester United game after the international break.
So, without the influential skipper, things are going to get a whole lot harder for the Toon Army and their faithful. Having lost in their last outing, an added importance comes after the international break as someone must step up in order to replicate the fine from of the injured party.
With that in mind, as we enter the international break, Newcastle and Rafa Benitez will be hoping for a healthy return as many players head off with their respective countries.
After two straight losses, they’ve seen themselves plummet to a disappointing low of 11th place as all the hard work starts to unravel. So for a side that is home to many defenders, it’s vital that they can step up in class as tough opposition awaits.
So here we take a look at 2 Newcastle defenders that need to step up…
Ciaran Clark
The experienced Irishman is probably the man that Benitez will turn to in order to fill his defensive partners void. With plenty of Premier League captain experience with Aston Villa, Clark knows exactly what is being asked of him, so will need to step up into those shoes.
Providing speed and a strong stable base similar to Lascelles will come in handy against the oncoming traffic of forwards, having proved a popular figure on Tyneside since arriving last summer.
Florian Lejeune
The newly signed centre-back has been kept out of the side for most of the season due to the formidable pairing of Clark and Lascelles.
Still, in recent games, the former Eibar defender has been given his chance, as he looks to cement his place in the side. As a player who poses a tall structure, he offers an incredible aerial solidity. Indeed, the Frenchman can play on the ground and packs a punch with a tackle.
With Romelu Lukaku waiting, he needs to be at his best.
So Newcastle fans, thoughts?
