Eddie Howe provides injury update ahead of Liverpool fixture

Newcastle United’s preparations for their upcoming Premier League trip to Anfield have been hit by fresh defensive injury concerns, with manager Eddie Howe confirming that full-back Tino Livramento has suffered a hamstring problem. The defender picked up the injury during the FA Cup third-round tie against Bournemouth, being forced off before the hour mark and prompting an unplanned change at the back.

Speaking after the game, Howe described it as a clear hamstring injury and admitted it is a major setback for both player and team. He said the issue is “always a worry when it is muscular” and stressed how disappointed he was for Livramento, noting how hard the defender had worked to return to peak physical condition. Howe suggested the outlook is not encouraging, confirming that Livramento will be out for a “period of time,” casting serious doubt over his involvement against Liverpool.

Newcastle’s defensive resources were already stretched prior to this latest blow, having lost several defenders earlier in the season. The squad’s lack of depth at the back now becomes an even more pressing problem as they prepare to face Liverpool’s attack at Anfield. The timing of Livramento’s setback, coming so soon before a tough league fixture, is particularly damaging.

Howe also provided an update on centre-back Fabian Schär, confirming there has been no improvement in his situation. Schär is due to see a specialist and, like Livramento, is expected to be sidelined for a “period of time.” With both players now likely to miss the Liverpool clash, Newcastle’s already weakened defence faces an even sterner test, something Liverpool will look to exploit.

The cumulative effect of these injuries leaves Newcastle with significant selection headaches and increases the challenge of taking points at Anfield, where defensive solidity is crucial against a high-intensity, attacking Liverpool side.