The Magpies were a couple of players down in training on Friday as they prepared for the clash against Tottenham Hotspur
Newcastle United have now discovered the full extent of Joe Willock's Suwon injury blow.
However, Chronicle Live understands that the former Arsenal player will not have a long lay-off after being stretchered off against the K-League on Wednesday evening in South Korea. Crucially, Willock, who came out worse in a 50-50 late in the game, has not damaged his achilles - which was the first fear as he was carried down the tunnel in midweek.
Newcastle had a lighter session yesterday in Seoul at Seongnam FC's training base, but Willock did not feature. Also absent was Sandro Tonali who, as Chronicle Live revealed yesterday, has suffered a whack to his left leg.
But Willock has remained with the squad and has not travelled home for treatment with a bruised calf the only outcome of his unfortunate moment in Suwon. Tonali is also not badly hurt and could face Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday in the final game of the Coupang Play Series.
Tonali was in great spirits as he took part in a meet and greet with lucky supporters who were drawn out of a ballot to meet the Italian, Kieran Trippier and Fabian Schar.
The first-team stars, who were donning the new green away shirt, were part of a promotion for Guinness which also saw fans get free pints with the images of Shola Ameobi and Shay Given emblazoned on the head of the drinks!
The absence of Willock could give Lewis Miley a chance to shine against Spurs and gain his second start of pre-season. The 19-year-old was one of the plus points of the 1-0 loss in Suwon.
Norway Under-20 star Travis Hernes is also being pushed to the front in pre-season following the departure of Sean Longstaff to Leeds.
With Newcastle down to five central midfielders, Hernes may be held back from a loan deal this season.
It's also a chance for Alfie Harrison, still just 19, to remind Howe what he can do after being entrusted to be on the trip to the Far East. The ex-Man City youngster did not make any first-team breakthrough last term and opportunity knocks in Seoul.
Here at ChronicleLive, we are dedicated to bringing you the best Newcastle United coverage and analysis.
Make sure you don't miss out on the latest NUFC news by joining our free WhatsApp group. You can get all the breaking news and best analysis sent straight to your phone by clicking here to subscribe.