Newcastle United's defensive woes have deepened ahead of their crucial Carabao Cup quarter-final, handing a significant potential advantage to their opponents Fulham and their star winger Harry Wilson.
Key Defender Ruled Out With Fractured Rib
The Magpies have been dealt a fresh injury blow following their painful 1-0 defeat to rivals Sunderland on Sunday night. Defender Dan Burn was forced off after just 42 minutes following a challenge with Nordi Mukiele and was taken to hospital at half-time with breathing difficulties.
Subsequent reports, including from the Daily Mail, confirm the 33-year-old has sustained a rib fracture. Burn has been a near-ever-present for Eddie Howe this season, starting every Premier League match except one due to suspension. His absence compounds a defensive crisis, with Sven Botman, Kieran Trippier, and Emil Krafth also sidelined.
Wilson's 'Unstoppable' Form Presents Major Threat
This reshuffled Newcastle backline, likely to feature Lewis Hall and Fabian Schar, will face a man in the form of his life. Fulham's Harry Wilson has been directly involved in six goals in his last four league appearances, scoring three and providing three assists.
His electrifying performance in the 3-2 win at Burnley on Saturday, where he scored once and set up two more, prompted high praise from manager Marco Silva. "Clearly, in my opinion, he's in the best moment of his career so far," Silva stated. "What a night from him – decisive again."
Carabao Cup Quarter-Final Set for Wednesday Night
The stage is now set for a compelling clash under the lights at St James' Park on Wednesday, 17th December. While holders Newcastle remain favourites, the momentum has shifted. Fulham travel north with three wins in their last five league games, while Newcastle's defeat at Sunderland has dented confidence.
With a place in the semi-finals at stake and Newcastle's defence weakened, Silva is unlikely to rest his key man. This match represents another prime opportunity for Wilson to prove himself a match-winner on a major stage. Fulham then have a five-day break before hosting Nottingham Forest in the Premier League on Monday, 22nd December.
