Pete Hanson

Wed 10 May 2023 17:10, UK

Newcastle United could be without star man Joelinton against Leeds United in what would be a huge boost to the Whites’ chances of picking up a much-needed win in their relegation battle, according to LeedsLive.

The news outlet reports Brazilian midfielder Joelinton is rated as a doubt for the clash at Elland Road after limping off in Newcastle’s 2-0 defeat to Premier League title contenders Arsenal on 7 May.

With Sean Longstaff also still struggling with a foot complaint, Newcastle – who are closing in on a top-four finish and Champions League qualification – may end up depleted in the midfield department against a Leeds side sitting 19th with three games to play.

Leeds must make most of Newcastle injury woes

There is no dressing up the fact that Leeds are in the last-chance saloon when it comes to their Premier League survival hopes.

Sam Allardyce’s first game in charge finished in a creditable 2-1 defeat to leaders Manchester City, but a defeat nonetheless.

Two of Leeds’ final three matches are at Elland Road against Newcastle and Tottenham Hotspur – fixtures that sandwich a trip to West Ham – and they are in desperate need of some home comforts.

On paper, Newcastle will be favourites to leave West Yorkshire with all three points, but Joelinton would be a huge loss for Eddie Howe’s side, who already have doubts over Longstaff.

It means the key for Leeds this weekend is to win the battle in midfield, not allow Newcastle to settle into a rhythm and force opportunities against a defence that is the leakiest in the division.

If Leeds don’t win that battle, it may end up being the latest low in a season of disappointments, with relegation an all-too likely outcome.

In other Leeds United news, Sam Allardyce is predicted to use Max Wober in the midfield for Leeds United by a BT Sport pundit.