NEWCASTLE’S Premier League clash at Everton on Thursday is OFF with the Magpies were left with just ELEVEN senior players for the game.
A combination of positive coronavirus test results and more injuries has led to the postponement.
A club statement reads: “Newcastle United lodged a formal request with the Premier League to postpone Thursday’s fixture at Goodison Park, and that has been approved by the Premier League Board.
“The match, which was scheduled to kick off at 7:30pm (GMT), will now be rescheduled and a new date and time will be confirmed in due course.
“Newcastle United would like to place on record its thanks to Everton FC and the Premier League for their cooperation and understanding.
“The club also wishes to offer its sincere apologies to supporters of both clubs for any inconvenience caused by these circumstances.
“Newcastle United will continue to follow extensive coronavirus protocols and the club is working with Public Health England North East (PHE), local health authorities and the Premier League to minimise the risk of further transmission.
“The club will not be naming individuals who have contracted Covid-19 or their vaccination status.
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“We ask that their privacy is respected and we wish them a full and speedy recovery.”
Callum Wilson, Allan Saint-Maximin and Ryan Fraser were all added to Toon’s lengthy absentee list after Monday’s draw against Manchester United.
Eddie Howe’s side were down to the bare bones before Monday and could only name eight subs – two of whom were goalkeepers.
Ciaran Clark, Matt Ritchie, Joe Willock and Karl Darlow were all missing, joining Paul Dummett, Jamal Lewis and Federico Fernandez on the sidelines.
Wilson then pulled up just before half-time and is set to be out for months with a feared torn calf.
Saint-Maximin limped off just before the end with a less serious calf issue while Ryan Fraser picked up a hamstring injury.
Fabian Schar was also seen hobbling at the end and Javier Manquillo is suspended for the game at Goodison Park.
That leaves 11 fit senior outfield players, keeper Martin Dubravka and youngster Elliot Anderson, who was on the bench and has played one Prem game.
Fellow teen Joe White was also a replacement but is yet to play for the first team.
After the 1-1 draw with the Red Devils, Howe said: “It’s 13 plus a goalkeeper to have enough players for a game. We’re going to be dangerously close to that number.”
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