Eddie Howe says that Sean Longstaff will miss Newcastle United's clash against Leeds United - while Matt Ritchie has been ruled out for the season.
Longstaff has not trained this week and is due to see a specialist again for the second time after suffering a foot injury against Everton. Ritchie has suffered a knee injury in training and his future at the club is unclear, although Howe would like him to stay after the end of his contract.
Howe said: "He (Longstaff) went to see a specialist. I think there were a few concerns that there may be some sort of structural damage in his foot.
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"There wasn't, which is good news, but there is a bit of damage to one of the ligaments. He's being re-scanned today, actually, which we hope will show an improvement.
"It's slightly unclear when he'll be back, but it's not a long-term issue at all. It's whether we can get him back before the end of the season."
Speaking about Ritchie, Howe said: "Matt's picked up a knee injury. I don't think it's too bad, but I think it will keep him out for the rest of the season."
Discussing Leeds, Howe added: "We're looking forward to it. We know it's going to be a great occasion and a great atmosphere. We need to be ready for what's going to come.
"It's going to be a really important start to the game. I think the first 15/20 minutes will have a huge impact on what's going to happen afterwards."
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