Joelinton injury concern as Miley and Fernandez-Pardo tipped to return at Fulham

Joelinton is reportedly a doubt for Saturday's trip to Fulham, although Newcastle could welcome back Lewis Miley and Matias Fernandez-Pardo at Craven Cottage.

Craig Hope reports in the Daily Mail that the Brazilian felt muscle discomfort after Monday's 1-0 defeat to Everton. There is hope that it was a severe case of cramp, with medical staff assessing whether he has suffered another injury.

The concern comes only three weeks after Joelinton returned from the thigh problem that had kept him out since the summer. Hope says Newcastle will take no chances given his history of muscle injuries.

Miley boost with Ramsey suspended

Hope also expects Miley to return after missing Monday's game. The midfielder had been pushing for involvement against Everton after recovering from his injury.

His availability would be particularly welcome with Jacob Ramsey suspended following his late red card.

If Joelinton misses out too, Matthias Jaissle would be without two of his midfield options. Miley could come into contention alongside Nico Gonzalez, with Joe Willock and Sean Steur also available as the head coach considers changes for Fulham.

Fernandez-Pardo expected back after virus

Fernandez-Pardo is also expected back after his illness, having wanted to be included against Everton but been told he needed more training.

As we covered yesterday, Jaissle said the Belgian had been hit hard by a virus and wasn't physically ready for Monday's squad after returning to training on Sunday.

Hope reports that Fernandez-Pardo arrived from Lille wanting to play centrally, but Jaissle currently prefers William Osula up front.

That could leave Fernandez-Pardo competing for a place out wide at Fulham, giving Jaissle another option to change an attack that failed to score against Everton.