Newcastle United will be without Sean Longstaff for their clash against Leeds United this afternoon.
The Magpies midfielder has enjoyed an upturn in fortunes at St James' Park and his form has coincided with their push for Champions League football as he has played 32 times in the Premier League this season.
Liverpool kept the pressure on the Toon Army in the race for qualification in next season's elite European competition with their win over Brentford. Defeats for Newcastle and Manchester United following the Reds win boosted the hopes of Jurgen Klopp's side going into the final games of the season.
EXCLUSIVE: Jerzy Dudek opens up on search for successor and Liverpool's 'Polish Messi'
Eddie Howe's side travel to relegation-threatened Leeds on Saturday as they look to extend the lead over Livepool to six points.
However, they will have to make do without two players. Matt Ritchie, who has been out of the squad for much of the season, has been ruled out for the rest of the season.
"He (Longstaff) went to see a specialist. I think there were a few concerns that there may be some sort of structural damage in his foot," Howe said.
"There wasn't, which is good news, but there is a bit of damage to one of the ligaments. He's being re-scanned today, actually, which we hope will show an improvement.
"It's slightly unclear when he'll be back, but it's not a long-term issue at all. It's whether we can get him back before the end of the season."
The Newcastle boss added on Ritchie: "Matt's picked up a knee injury. I don't think it's too bad, but I think it will keep him out for the rest of the season."
READ NEXT
- Liverpool agree deal with young defender who has already been sent Jurgen Klopp message
- Liverpool warned over Leicester gameplan as Dean Smith plays down recent resurgence
- 'My approach worked' - Jamie Carragher told Roy Hodgson his 'biggest mistake' at Liverpool
- 'I don't like that' - Joe Hart disagrees with perception of Liverpool player ahead of summer transfer
- Erik ten Hag dismisses Liverpool resurgence as Champions League pressure builds
