Newcastle United's head coach, Eddie Howe, has expressed significant concern over the team's dwindling defensive options following a fresh wave of injuries. The latest setback sees defender Tino Livramento ruled out for up to two months with a hamstring injury, which he sustained during Newcastle's dramatic penalty shootout victory against Bournemouth in the FA Cup. This injury is particularly disheartening for Livramento, who had only recently returned to action earlier this month after a knee lay-off. Howe conveyed his deep disappointment, stating he was "absolutely devastated for him because he's worked so hard to come back." The 23-year-old, an England international with three caps, now faces a race against time to regain fitness ahead of the crucial March internationals against Japan and Uruguay.

Livramento's absence exacerbates an already precarious situation, as key defenders Dan Burn, Fabian Schar, and Emil Krafth are also currently sidelined. Howe openly admitted, "Defensively we're really stretched," a sentiment echoed after his side's 2-0 defeat to Manchester City in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg. Hopes are pinned on Dan Burn, who suffered a broken rib and punctured lung during the derby loss to Sunderland, making a swift return, potentially before the end of the month. His comeback would provide a "massive lift" to the squad.

The club is now contemplating its options in the transfer market, which remains open for another two-and-a-half weeks. Howe mentioned the transfer market as a potential solution, and there is also the possibility of recalling left-back Matt Targett from his loan spell at Middlesbrough. While Newcastle United possesses the financial capacity for mid-season recruitment, Howe has acknowledged that any such moves could impact the club's summer transfer strategy, where "potentially better options" and "more value" might be available. He has also openly questioned whether the "right player" is genuinely obtainable during the mid-season window.

As they prepare for a challenging fixture list, starting with an away trip to Wolves on Sunday, Newcastle's senior defensive ranks are alarmingly thin. Howe's only currently available senior defensive options include Malick Thiaw, Sven Botman, Lewis Hall, Kieran Trippier, and midfielder Lewis Miley, who has commendably filled in at right-back. The upcoming schedule is relentless, with Newcastle slated to face formidable opponents such as PSV, Aston Villa (twice), Paris St-Germain, Liverpool, Manchester City, Brentford, and Tottenham all within a demanding 24-day period, underscoring the urgency of resolving their defensive woes.