Newcastle United faces a significant player shortage before the match against Leeds United, with crucial players likely to be sidelined for an extended period

Newcastle United are preparing for a potentially tough run of fixtures, with a growing list of absentees that could lead to more aggressive transfer activity before the September 1 deadline.

The Premier League's mandatory head injury protocols will keep Fabian Schar out of Newcastle's next match, following his concussion during a previous game against Liverpool. The defender is likely to miss out on the visit to Elland Road this weekend, where Newcastle will face Leeds United.

In Schar's place, Malick Thiaw and Jacob Ramsey are expected to start for Newcastle at Elland Road. However, the squad could be down to the bare bones, with several key players likely to miss upcoming weeks due to injuries or suspensions.

Anthony Gordon's straight red card in the last match means he will be suspended for the next three games. Joining him on the sidelines are Joelinton, who was forced off with a groin injury, and Sandro Tonali, who could be sidelined for an extended period due to a dislocated shoulder. The injury diagnosis for both players is yet to be confirmed.

Newcastle's next match will be a challenging one, as they look to bounce back from a disappointing draw against an unspecified opponent at St. James' Park, where they were reduced to ten men after Gordon's dismissal. The opponent scored the winning goal in stoppage time, adding to Newcastle's woes.

With Isak's return to face Leeds in doubt, Will Osula is likely to lead the line for Newcastle. The asking price for potential new signing Yoane Wissa remains higher than the Newcastle hierarchy are willing to meet, so a new striker may not be on the cards just yet.

Despite the tough circumstances, Newcastle will be hoping to put up a fight against Leeds United this weekend. The outcome could be crucial in shaping their season's trajectory.

Newcastle United faces a significant player shortage before the match against Leeds United, with crucial players likely to be sidelined for an extended period