NUFC star an ‘early doubt’ for Bournemouth on Saturday after injury is confirmed by Benitez

Mikel Merino has emerged as an injury doubt for Saturday’s home clash with Bournemouth at St James’ Park, with Rafa Benitez confirming that he will have to see a specialist to ‘see how he feels’ after missing last night’s 1-0 defeat at Burnley.

The Spanish maestro has played a bit part in our success so far this season and was sorely missed at Turf Moor last night, with his calmness on the ball and intelligence and energy off it being evidently lacking in our engine room.

Merino did not travel with the squad according to The Chronicle, who report that he was back on Tyneside being assessed by medics.

After the game, Rafa Benitez confirmed that he will now have to see a specialist:

“We have to wait. He will see the specialist and see how he feels.

“We need to wait a couple of days and be sure we have the right decision for him.”

He’s a big player for us and a real talent, so hopefully he can shake off this problem in time for Saturday’s big game against Bournemouth, however the initial prognosis doesn’t sound too good:

A real shame if true. If last night’s showing was anything to go by, we could really do with him back!

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About Olly Hawkins

As a Junior Magpie since birth and season ticket holder, I eat, sleep and breathe all things NUFC! Here at the blog, I aim to bring you news, views, match reports and transfer exclusives as and when I get them.

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