Newcastle United's defensive woes have taken a severe turn for the worse after key defender Dan Burn was rushed to hospital following a heavy collision in the club's derby defeat to Sunderland.
Derby Day Collision Leaves Burn in Agony
The incident occurred during the first half of the Premier League clash at the Stadium of Light on Sunday. Burn, 33, winced in pain after a hefty challenge from Sunderland's Nordi Mukiele, whose legs connected forcefully with the England international's torso.
Despite clearly being hurt, the popular Geordie centre-back showed tremendous character to continue playing until near half-time. He received treatment on the pitch before being substituted by Fabian Schar, with hostile home supporters roaring their approval at his departure.
Howe's Concerning Update on Player's Condition
After the match, a worried Newcastle boss Eddie Howe provided a stark update on his player's condition. "He was struggling to breathe at half-time. It was a big problem," Howe revealed. "Dan Burn has gone to the hospital for a check of his ribs, so hopefully he will be OK."
Initial reports suggest Burn has suffered a suspected fractured rib. If confirmed, the serious injury could rule the defender out for the remainder of 2025, dealing a massive blow to Newcastle's packed winter schedule.
Defensive Crisis Deepens for Struggling Magpies
Burn's potential long-term absence exacerbates an already critical injury situation at the back for Eddie Howe. The Magpies are already without the services of:
- Sven Botman
- Kieran Trippier
- Emil Krafth
Meanwhile, Jamaal Lascelles and Harrison Ashby have been battling ongoing fitness concerns. This leaves Howe with just four senior defensive options: Schar, Tino Livramento, Lewis Hall, and Malick Thiaw, all of whom have had their own injury issues in the past.
The timing could hardly be worse. Newcastle face a brutal run of fixtures, including:
- Fulham in the Carabao Cup (Wednesday)
- Five Premier League matches against Chelsea, Manchester United, Burnley, Crystal Palace, and Leeds in just three weeks.
- An FA Cup third-round tie against Bournemouth in January.
Burn, who earned his first England caps earlier this year, has become a fan favourite at St James' Park. His likely absence for this crucial period leaves Newcastle's defensive line looking dangerously threadbare as they aim to salvage their season.
