Livramento Injury Casts Doubt on Chelsea Clash

Full-back Tino Livramento is a doubt to face Chelsea this Saturday after suffering a knee injury during Newcastle United's Carabao Cup quarter-final victory over Fulham. The 23-year-old received treatment on the pitch before being substituted in the 76th minute, later seen with an ice pack on his left knee. Manager Eddie Howe described the situation as "worrying," given Livramento's previous history of knee problems.

Livramento's potential unavailability is a significant blow as Newcastle are already grappling with a substantial number of defensive injuries. This includes key players such as Dan Burn, Sven Botman, Kieran Trippier, and Emil Krafth, all currently sidelined. Lewis Hall also missed the Fulham match with a hamstring issue, though Howe indicated he is in contention to return for the Chelsea game.

The team's defensive depth is being severely tested, prompting Howe to consider options like recalling Matt Targett from his loan spell. Newcastle secured their semi-final spot against Manchester City with a late goal from Lewis Miley, but the growing injury list casts a shadow over their immediate prospects.