Eddie Howe has confirmed that Jacob Murphy suffered a hamstring injury during Newcastle United’s win over Crystal Palace, which could offer a lifeline to Anthony Elanga.
Elanga has been suffering from an injury himself of late but, speaking before the Palace game, Howe did confirm the Sweden star was making good progress on his return from injury.
While Elanga didn’t make Newcastle United’s win over Crystal Palace, winger Murphy did not cover himself in glory.
Who would you start at right-wing going forward, Jacob Murphy, Harvey Barnes or Anthony Elanga?
That was perhaps explained by the injury that eventually forced him off but it would be fair to say that no one has yet really nailed down the regular spot on the right wing.
It remains to be seen if Murphy makes Wednesday’s clash with Leeds but, if he doesn’t, perhaps Elanga can force his way back in.
Jacob Murphy has suffered a hamstring injury
After a reasonably ineffective performance at St James’ Park, Murphy came off towards the closing stages and was replaced by Joe Willock.
Willock isn’t really a right winger anyway but did his chances of playing regularly no good by missing a brilliant chance late on.
Asked about Murphy’s condition in his post-match press conference after the game, Howe said: “Jacob was just feeling a bit of awareness in his hamstring, so we need to check him.”
Joe Willock 😅 How much money could Newcastle realistically hope to get for him in January?!
Anthony Elanga has a big problem in Harvey Barnes
There is, however, another option to consider for Howe.
Indeed, there’s every chance that Harvey Barnes could be brought back into the side and played on the right, just as he was against Burnley.
If he’s fit, that would be a big blow to Elanga.
While Elanga has struggled since signing for Newcastle, the idea that a left winger would play ahead of him on the right should be alarming.
Anthony Gordon could also operate there, with Barnes on the left.
The right side of Newcastle’s attacking line is not looking very strong right now. Murphy seems first choice at the moment, but it’s been a while since he played well.
Seemingly set to return from injury soon, Elanga may have a chance.
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