Newcastle United hit by new training ground bombshell as Eddie Howe deals with double blow

Newcastle United are set to turn to Lloyd Kelly when Premier League action resumes later this month with Eddie Howe's side hit with a string of absentees.

United's 6ft 7in centre-back Dan Burn will miss the clash against West Ham at St James' Park due to suspension after reaching his fifth booking of the season. And numbers in the defensive ranks have been hit further by a training ground injury for Emil Krafth.

The Sweden international will not be representing his country this week due to a broken collar bone which also sees him miss the encounter against the Hammers. It means the stage will be set for Kelly who has had to wait patiently for his opportunity this season.

READ MORE: Alexander Isak plays down Newcastle United contract fear and answers Arsenal transfer question

READ MORE: Newcastle United star Alexander Isak caught up in Sweden 'chaos' as international break disrupted

The free transfer arrival from AFC Bournemouth has started just three Premier League games and has had to use the Carabao Cup for two starts against AFC Wimbledon and Chelsea. But Newcastle chief Howe is likely to pair the 26-year-old Bristol-born defender with Fabian Schar in the next game.

If injuries at Newcastle aren't bad enough, Howe is facing more potential suspensions after Burn's stint in the sin bin. Both Schar and Joelinton are also nearing their five-caution limit on yellow cards.

Howe said: "We knew we were going to lose Dan at some stage, and potentially Fab (Schar) and Joey (Joelinton) are in the same position. I’m probably pleased we’re not losing them all at the same time. It will be a huge blow to lose Dan, he’s done very well this season."