Steve Bruce’s squad will be bolstered by the return of four players from Monday morning. Both Emil Krafth and Fabian Schar will return from European Championships duty with Sweden and Switzerland respectively. But they could have to wait until Newcastle’s game at Burton Albion for a slice of pre-season action. Joelinton and Javier Manquillo are also set for a return to training. Bruce left out Matt Ritchie (knock) and Yoshinori Muto (non-related Covid illness) of the 3-2 win at Doncaster Rovers last night.
Steve Bruce said: “Matt Ritchie was a little bit sore after training yesterday so we weren’t going to risk that. We hope Manquillo and Joelinton will train on Monday. We’ve got Schär and Krafth back from internationals.”
When asked about Muto – who is likely to be sold or loaned out
Steve Bruce said: “Muto – we’re trying to find a solution (for his future) but he was also a little bit sore.”
Bruce was also asked about whether he will sign Joe Willock
Steve Bruce said: “Midfield is the main area. We’re weaker than we were last year because we haven’t got Joe Willock. We need to keep improving but it’s very difficult with limited funds, but I’ll keep bashing away to try to improve us, little by little.”
