Wolves have confirmed that Raul Jimenez (suspension) and Ruben Neves (injury) will miss their trip to St James’ Park on 8th April, handing Newcastle an early boost before a ball has even been kicked.
The tie starts a run of three crucial home games in the space of 13 days, with fixtures against Wolves, Leicester and Crystal Palace giving us a big opportunity to secure our Premier League status before tough tests against Liverpool, Man City and Arsenal.
Jimenez received his second red card of the season – resulting in a two-match ban – in a 3-2 loss at home to Leeds; where they were winning 2-0 prior to the dismissal.
The Mexican marksman has six goals and three assists in 28 appearances in the league so far this season after he made his return following the severe head injury that kept him out for most of last season.
Neves will also miss the game due to a knee injury that will reportedly keep the 25-year-old out until May.
The Portuguese midfielder has been a key player for Wolves since their return to the top-flight and will be a huge blow for their hunt for a European place.
As for players who could be returning for Eddie Howe, The Telegraph report that Callum Wilson has an ‘outside chance’ of returning from injury for the Wolves game, however it seems unlikely that either he or Kieran Trippier will be rushed back from serious injuries.
