Overview
- Eddie Howe said Sven Botman is unlikely to face Burnley, with several defenders still sidelined, and he will decide whether Aaron Ramsdale keeps goal over the returning Nick Pope.
- With six senior defenders out and Fabian Schar suspended for the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final, Newcastle are prioritising a centre-back in the January window.
- A possible recall of Matt Targett has been undermined after the left-back limped off for Middlesbrough on Boxing Day and now awaits assessment.
- Club leadership continues to back Howe through a poor run that has Newcastle 13th with one league win in nine and an 11-match clean-sheet drought.
- Midfield interest includes AZ’s Kees Smit, viewed as a summer move at an estimated €40–45m, and Monaco’s Lamine Camara, who could be available in winter if the price is met.