Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has revealed that Bruno Guimaraes is a doubt for Saturday's FA Cup clash with Aston Villa after picking up a hamstring injury against Tottenham. The Brazil midfielder limped off in second-half injury time during the 2-1 win on Tuesday, and Howe admitted he is still awaiting the full extent of the problem.
Speaking ahead of the trip to Villa Park, Howe said: 'Bruno - we are awaiting news on his hamstring injury. We are waiting for the full extent on the injury.' The midfielder's absence would be a significant blow as Newcastle face a tough run of fixtures, including a Champions League trip to Qarabag and a Premier League meeting with Manchester City.
In a wider injury update, Howe confirmed that Joelinton is making good progress from a groin injury sustained against Aston Villa in late January. The Brazilian is unlikely to feature on Saturday but could return for the midweek Champions League match. 'Joelinton is doing really well. I don't think he'll make this game but he's not going to be too far away beyond this game,' Howe said.
Lewis Miley is also nearing a return after missing the Tottenham match with a dead leg, while Tino Livramento is expected to be sidelined until early March. However, Emil Krafth is 'not close' to returning. Newcastle will hope to have Guimaraes available as they push for a top-four finish in the Premier League and progress in the FA Cup and Champions League.
