Newcastle await Anthony Elanga scan ahead of Hull City Premier League clash

Newcastle United are awaiting scan results on Anthony Elanga after the winger’s injury added to a growing list of concerns ahead of Saturday’s Premier League meeting with Hull City. The 24-year-old has made a strong opening contribution, scoring twice in five matches in all competitions, but was missed as Newcastle suffered a 4-1 defeat at Leeds United on Monday.

Elanga scan to determine severity

Head coach Matthias Jaissle said Elanga was scheduled for an MRI scan shortly after his media briefing, with the club still uncertain about the extent of the problem. The manager stressed that Newcastle were hoping for encouraging news after a player who has quickly become central to their attacking approach.

Jaissle said Elanga’s early-season form had been important both individually and collectively, describing the Sweden international’s qualities as a significant asset in the way his side intend to play. He also insisted Newcastle must remain positive if the winger is unavailable.

• Elanga has recorded two goals in five appearances this season.
• Newcastle lost 4-1 at Elland Road without him on Monday.
• An MRI was due to provide greater clarity on the injury.
• The winger’s speed and willingness to attack directly have been a major feature of Jaissle’s plans.

Hull test brings selection pressure

Newcastle go into the Hull match in 12th place, having collected five points from their opening league fixtures. Their visitors have started impressively after promotion and arrive fourth in the table on eight points.

Hull’s early results include a 2-0 win over Manchester United and a 2-2 draw away to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, making the fixture a demanding one for a Newcastle side already dealing with limited options.

Jacob Murphy filled in on the right side at Leeds and is among the candidates to continue there should Elanga be ruled out. Jaissle praised Murphy’s experience in the role and his understanding of the specific demands placed on him by the coaching staff.

The manager said the squad contained players capable of adapting, though he acknowledged that the available pool is becoming smaller. He views the situation as an opportunity for others to step forward, but admitted there are not many alternatives at present.

Dedic, Ramsey and Gonzalez also unavailable

Elanga is not Newcastle’s only fitness concern. Amar Dedic will miss the Hull game, removing an option that had been considered for a more advanced position in response to the winger’s absence. Midfielder Jacob Ramsey is also sidelined.

Jaissle does not expect any of the players currently out to return in time for Saturday, leaving the club with a compressed squad for the visit of Hull.

• Full-back Amar Dedic is unavailable and cannot be used in an attacking cover role.
• Jacob Ramsey remains absent.
• Nico Gonzalez is also set to miss out after leaving the Leeds match early.
• Jaissle expects no immediate recoveries among the injured group before Hull visit.

Concussion protocol keeps Gonzalez out

Gonzalez had to be withdrawn in the first half against Leeds after being struck on the head by the ball in an unusual incident. Jaissle said the impact did not appear to be a major collision, but was forceful and accurately placed enough to knock the midfielder unconscious.

Newcastle are following the Premier League’s required concussion procedures, with Jaissle emphasising the club’s responsibility to act cautiously. He welcomed the advanced nature of the league’s approach, but Gonzalez’s absence further complicates preparations for a match in which Newcastle will need to respond quickly to their heavy defeat at Leeds.