Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe could face a selection headache ahead of the 2023/24 Premier League season, as Joe Willock and Fabian Schar could miss out of the first game of the campaign against Aston Villa.

Recently, on Newcastle’s official club website, they released a photo album of the team in pre-season training – but Willock and Schar were nowhere to be seen.

According to Geordie Boot Boys, both players are currently suffering with hamstring issues. Willock, in particular, has been out of action for the entirety of Newcastle’s pre-season.

This could be a major blow to the Toon ahead of the upcoming campaign – we’ll examine just how damaging their absences could be in this piece.

How much of a blow will this be to Newcastle?

Both Willock and Schar were important players in the Newcastle first team last season – especially Schar, who, alongside Sven Botman, formed one of the most formidable back lines in the division.

Willock was not quite as crucial to the first team as Schar was, but he was nonetheless an incredibly useful asset. His movement off the ball, couple with his ability to score goals from midfield, made him a real thorn in the side of any opposing defence.

Who will replace Joe Willock and Fabian Schar in the squad?

Should Schar be unavailable for selection at the beginning of the season, he will probably be replaced in the team by Dan Burn. While the former Brighton and Hove Albion man generally played at left-back last season, he is a natural centre-back and will relish a return to his preferred role.

Meanwhile, Willock will probably be replaced in the squad by Elliot Anderson, who has been excellent in pre-season. Additionally, players such as Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton could take his place, despite mainly occupying other roles in the squad. Furthermore, Republic of Ireland international Jeff Hendrick could also return to the squad if Willock is not ready to play.

Additionally, Howe is reportedly a huge fan of youngster Lewis Miley – if he is feeling bold, we could see the 17-year-old in the starting lineup against Villa.