Newcastle have been handed a double boost for our huge home tie against Man United next month, with Casemiro set to miss out through suspension and Joelinton returning from a two-game ban.
Casemiro was given a straight red for his dangerous challenge in Sunday’s 0-0 draw with Southampton and, because it was his second of the season, he will now miss their next four games, including the visit to St James’ Park.
As for our very own Brazilian midfielder, big Joe will be returning from his two game suspension just in time for this fixture after picking up 10 yellow cards already this season. He sat out our 2-1 win over Wolves over the weekend and will also be absent for Friday’s trip to Nottingham Forest.
It will be good to get the 26-year-old’s physicality and dominant presence back in the team against Man Utd; who we’d actually overtake on April 2nd if we manage to win our next two games.
After Casemiro’s MOTM performance in the Carabao Cup final, this will be a huge blow for Man United, who will also still be missing Christian Eriksen through injury. There’s also fresh doubts over Marcel Sabitzer fitness, so this could be the perfect storm to get revenge against Ten Hag’s men.
With the Red Devils just six points ahead of us having played one game extra, this suspension could see them dragged into a battle for top four should we beat them in three weeks time.
