Another blow for Howe: The best goalscorer and the strongest defender are out for the year

Newcastle United are currently grappling with a crippling injury crisis, with key players Callum Wilson and Sven Botman facing substantial periods on the sidelines. Last season's highest scorer and the big defender won't play together again until February.

Wilson, suffering from a hamstring injury sustained against Borussia Dortmund, is expected to be out for around six weeks, extending possibly until the end of December. Centre-back Botman, who hasn't played since September due to a knee problem, may need an operation, and although the club hoped to avoid surgery, his return to action seems unlikely in the near term. If surgery becomes necessary, his absence could potentially extend until February at the earliest.

Adding to the injury concerns, midfielder Sean Longstaff is doubtful for the upcoming match against Chelsea due to a swollen ankle. At the same time, Sandro Tonali's 10-month ban has dealt another blow to the team's midfield options. Newcastle are keen on signing a central midfielder in January, with Kalvin Phillips from Manchester City on their radar, although this will not offer immediate relief.

The news isn't entirely bleak, as Miguel Almiron's muscle problem appears less severe, and he might be available to face Chelsea after the international break. Winger Harvey Barnes is progressing from a foot injury but isn't anticipated to return to the first team for at least another month.

Meanwhile, Elliot Anderson might be back before the New Year. Still, the return dates for Dan Burn, Jacob Murphy, and Matt Targett are expected to be closer to the middle of January, adding to the club's injury woes during an already challenging fixture schedule.

Eddie Howe will hope and pray that the club's bosses put the money up and bolster the squad as soon as the next transfer window opens. But even if they do so, the black-and-whites will have to go play for a month and a half with their options severely limited.