Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has revealed why Matt Targett – dead leg – and Ryan Fraser – back spasm – were both missing from our 0-0 draw with Brighton on Saturday.
Targett has been a crucial part of our back line since he joined on loan from Aston Villa in January – making it permanent this summer – and would be sorely missed if the injury keeps him out for much longer.
However, it doesn’t sound like he’ll be missing for long, as the manager expects him to be “back soon” after “very small muscle strain.”
On Targett, Howe said: “He got a dead leg last week to his hamstring. We felt it was just a knock, but we had a scan and it showed very, very subtle damage to the muscle. We’re treating it like a very small muscle strain, but we’re hoping he will be back soon.”
It seems Fraser was also close to making the game and should be back for Sunday’s clash with Man City. Howe said on the Scottish winger: “He had a slight back spasm on Thursday and Friday. He was close to making the game, but not fit.”
Miguel Almiron stole the right-wing spot from Fraser after an impressive pre-season, although the former Bournemouth man will be looking to get fit and kick on soon – especially now we’re in the market for another wide man.
With poor squad depth in this position, Howe will be hoping to have the pair fit and firing soon enough, particularly after it was revealed that Jonjo Shelvey will be missing for the first half of the season.
