Newcastle United have received a significant offensive lift for tonight’s Carabao Cup semi-final first-leg against Manchester City with the return of Anthony Elanga and Jacob Murphy to the 20-man matchday squad.
Elanga returns after a five-game absence due to a knee injury, while Murphy is back after being rested as a “precaution” during the weekend’s FA Cup action.
The attacking reinforcements arrive at a critical time for manager Eddie Howe, whose side is currently navigating a defensive crisis with just four senior defenders fit following “nasty-looking injuries” to Fabian Schar and Tino Livramento.
Despite the thin backline, the Magpies’ bench will be bolstered by the duo’s return to St James’ Park as they look to secure a first-leg advantage against the reigning Premier League champions.