Newcastle United’s defender is unlikely to play again

On Sunday afternoon, Jamaal Lascelles was absent from the Magpies' 3-1 victory over Southampton, which boosted their chances of qualifying for the Champions League. Although Lascelles hasn't played much this season, the 29-year-old's absence from the matchday squad was notable. According to Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe, the defender's season seems to be gone as a result of a calf problem.

Lascelles was only able to make seven league games in 2022–23, and both of his starts came against Manchester City and Liverpool. Howe has heaped admiration on the former Nottingham Forest player for his demeanour and professionalism on Tyneside. Howe told BBC Radio Newcastle that the man had sustained a calf injury while working out. "It appears that his season could be gone. He's been fantastic behind the scenes, so this is a huge letdown for us. It's a major setback.