Two Newcastle stars at risk of suspension

The closing stage of the Premier League campaign has finally arrived, as Newcastle face 10 cup finals between themselves and potentially bringing Champions League football back to the North East.

To do that, Eddie Howe will want as much of his squad as possible at his disposal.

However, recent bookings and suspensions loom for a couple of key players who will have to watch their step in the next few games.

Joelinton at risk once again

Often described as Newcastle’s ‘midfield enforcer’, Joelinton is a player who’s not shy to a tough tackle or contentious challenge.

So it’s no surprise that the Brazilian has accumulated nine bookings so far this season, meaning he’s one more away from being suspended for two games.

These would be the second and third games Joelinton would be absent for, having already missed the 4-0 win away to Ipswich through suspension.

The 10-booking ban is no longer in play after the 32nd game of the season, so Joelinton has  four games to avoid another caution, alongside another Toon teammate who is two away.

Burn two bookings away

Sitting just behind Joelinton in terms of bookings received, Dan Burn has so far received eight yellows in the league this season.

And like his teammate, the England international has already missed one fixture this season when he passed the five yellow threshold: that was back in November when the Mags lost 2-0 to West Ham.

Whereas Joelinton has some solid backups in Lewis Miley, Joe Willock and Sean Longstaff, Newcastle’s lack of depth in central defence following Sven Botman’s injury and Lloyd Kelly’s departure should leave Burn on his best behaviour over the next few games before the cards reset.

Gordon return imminent

One thing Newcastle fans can certainly look forward to from Brentford’s visit is that it will be the final game of Anthony Gordon’s suspension before he is cleared to play once again.

Barring any injury setback caused by his abrupt departure from England earlier this month, Gordon is likely to return as the Toon travel to the King Power Stadium to play Leicester.

With crunch games against Big Six opponents Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal all in the final 10 games, Gordon’s big game experience will be vital if Newcastle want to comfortably see out the campaign like they have done previously.