Malick Thiaw will miss the second leg of Newcastle’s Champions League play-off after picking up a milestone booking in Baku, leaving Eddie Howe with limited defensive options.
Newcastle United face a selection headache following their 6-1 thrashing of Qarabag, as defender Malick Thiaw received a one-match UEFA suspension.
Thiaw, who scored his first European goal for the club during the match, was cautioned for the third time this tournament.
While he remains eligible for Saturday’s Premier League clash against Manchester City, he is officially ruled out of Tuesday’s return leg at St James’ Park.
Manager Eddie Howe dismissed suggestions that the ban provides a necessary rest for the defender, highlighting the squad’s “paper-thin” depth.
“No, I don’t see it as a blessing. I see that as a negative because we’re really stretched in that position,” Howe stated.
With Dan Burn and Joelinton also one booking away from a ban, the Magpies must navigate the second leg carefully to ensure a full squad for the Round of 16.