Eddie Howe has hinted changes could be on the cards when Newcastle United host Crystal Palace on Wednesday night. The Magpies take on Patrick Vieira's side with a place in round four of the Carabao Cup at stake.
Newcastle followed up a near-perfect October with a comprehensive victory at Southampton. Goals from Miguel Almiron, Bruno Guimaraes, Joe Willock and Chris Wood sealed a 4-1 victory at St Mary's on Sunday.
The Magpies have just two fixtures left to negotiate ahead of the World Cup break, with a blockbuster home clash with Chelsea to come on Saturday. With that in mind, here is a look at the selection concerns facing Howe ahead of the encounter with the Eagles.
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Paul Dummett
The versatile defender is yet to feature for the Magpies this season after signing a one-year contract extension in the summer. Dummett is currently sidelined with a 'calf problem', and no return date has been given.
Alexander Isak
Newcastle's record signing picked up a thigh problem while on international duty with Sweden, and is expected to return after the World Cup. The former Real Socieded star scored twice in three appearances before the setback.
Emil Krafth
The right-back was pictured in the gym this week as he steps up his recovery from an ACL injury. Krafth was stretchered off during Newcastle's second-round victory at Tranmere Rovers in August.
Matt Ritchie
Like Isak, Ritchie is not expected to return before the World Cup. The 33-year-old is out with a hamstring problem, and he was namechecked by Howe in his pre-match press conference with Southampton as a long-term absentee.
Callum Wilson
Newcastle's number nine was withdrawn at half-time in the victory at Southampton after feeling the effects of illness earlier in the week. Howe confirmed the striker was feeling 'run down' and will be assessed ahead of the clash with Palace.
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