Marco Silva says a calf injury is likely to keep Fulham defender Tim Ream sidelined until after Christmas.

The American centre-back was an unused substitute during Fulham’s 5-0 win over Nottingham Forest last Wednesday, and, after feeling pain in his calf, was not named in the squad for Sunday’s 5-0 victory against West Ham.

Prior to that, the 36-year-old had started all of Fulham’s Premier League games so far this season except for the 2-2 draw with Arsenal in August, when he was serving a suspension. He will again be absent for Saturday’s trip to Newcastle.

“Tim Ream is going to be out”, said Silva, “and Adama [Traore] as well. All the others are going to be available for the match.

“Tim felt something after we played against Nottingham [Forest] at home. He felt something in his calf. Let’s see.

"We have to keep assessing him, keep recovering him. He’s with the medical department."

On Wednesday, Bernd Leno signed a contract extension with Fulham until 2027 with the option of a further year.

“I just want to make him understand he is important to us”, said Silva. “He has a long contract with us. A key player for us — a top, top goalkeeper.

"For me, he’s one of the best in this competition, clearly. Bernd is happy. That’s the most important things. He’s vital for us.”

In Newcastle, Fulham are preparing to face a wounded beast — Eddie Howe’s side having been knocked out of the Champions League following Wednesday’s 2-1 home defeat by AC Milan.

But Silva believes Newcastle’s disappointment will serve as no advantage to his side at St James’ Park.

“It’s one of the best places to play football in this country, because the environment is tough. If you like to embrace a challenge, that is the right place to do it. They are a top side.

“Last season, they did brilliantly at achieving a Champions league spot. It’s one of the most intense teams in this competition. [The game will now be] probably more harder than easier.”