NEWCASTLE UNITED have been forced to name a remarkably weak bench as they deal with their injury riddled squad.
The Magpies host Chelsea this afternoon, but won’t be able to turn to the bench for much inspiration if they’re struggling.
Injuries to the likes of Callum Wilson, Harvey Barnes and Dan Burn has led to Eddie Howe naming THREE goalkeepers on his bench.
The Newcastle boss has given a seat on he sidelines to Martin Dubravka, Mark Gillespie and Loris Karius.
And that comes alongside a number of academy players who have been given a slot as well.
Ben Parkinson, Amadou Diallo, Alex Murphy and Micheal Ndiweni have all been called up to the squad and could be given some valuable Premier League minutes.
Meanwhile Paul Dummett is also with the match day squad despite not playing for the Toon in the league since February last year.
And the final name on the sheet is Matt Ritchie who has played just 102 minutes of Premier League football in the last two seasons.
Newcastle fans couldn’t believe what they were seeing when the team news was released and took to social media to voice their opinions.
One wrote: “That’s the funniest bench of all time!”
CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS
While another joked: “If all three keepers on the bench aren’t fully kitted and wearing gloves I’m going to be very disappointed.”
And a third sarcastically added: “Karius on at 78 minutes to play up top… Let’s gooooo!”
