Newcastle United has received disappointing news as head coach Eddie Howe confirmed that experienced defender Kieran Trippier will be sidelined for up to four weeks due to a hamstring strain. This injury comes at a critical juncture in the 2025/26 season, leaving Newcastle without one of their key leaders in the dressing room. Trippier had been stepping in for the injured Tino Livramento, but now the team faces further challenges in their defensive lineup.
Compounding Newcastle’s difficulties, Dutch defender Sven Botman is also in the treatment room with a back injury and is considered a doubt for their upcoming match against Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on Saturday evening. The absence of these two players leaves the squad lacking depth on the bench, particularly in defense. Swedish full-back Emil Krafth, who has occasionally played in central defense, is also unavailable for the trip to Merseyside.
Despite the injury setbacks, there is a glimmer of hope for Newcastle supporters. The club’s summer signing, Yoane Wissa, who joined for £55 million, has begun training with the squad for the first time since sustaining a PCL injury during the September international break. While Wissa will not be ready for the match against Everton, reports indicate he may make his debut in mid-December, potentially in the highly anticipated Wear-Tyne derby against Sunderland.
This match marks the first league meeting between Newcastle and Sunderland since 2016, with Newcastle having triumphed 3-0 in their last encounter during the FA Cup in the 2023/24 season. The rivalry adds an extra layer of excitement for fans who are eager to see Wissa return to action.
On the other side, Everton will be without midfielder Idrissa Gana Gueye, who received a straight red card for an altercation with teammate Michael Keane during their recent 1-0 victory over Manchester United. This suspension could impact Everton’s performance as they prepare to host Newcastle.
As Newcastle approaches their first match at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, the team will need to navigate these injuries while aiming for a strong performance against an Everton side that has maintained a solid home record this season, winning three and drawing two of their first six home matches in the Premier League. The outcome of this match could significantly influence Newcastle’s standing as they look to solidify their position in the league amid ongoing injury issues.