Premier League managers have delivered their latest fitness updates ahead of this weekend’s domestic action, with numerous clubs grappling with significant squad shortages following the extended international break. According to ESPN, prominent names such as Erling Haaland, Cody Gakpo, Alexander Isak, and Kai Havertz experienced fitness concerns while representing their respective national teams.
Bournemouth and Midfield Setbacks
For Bournemouth, the resumption of league fixtures brings a severe blow. Midfielder Alex Scott has been ruled out for four to five weeks after sustaining a muscle injury during his full England debut in a 7-0 victory over Croatia. Bournemouth manager Marco Rose expressed his frustration over the setback, noting that scans will follow in the coming days. Rose emphasized that while he is proud of Scott’s international milestone, losing an important player for a month presents a major hurdle for the club’s upcoming fixtures.
Title Contenders Face Squad Challenges
Title contenders and European competitors are similarly affected. Liverpool manager faces a depleted attacking line as Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo have been ruled out of their clash against Manchester City due to injuries picked up on international duty. However, teammate Jérémy Jacquet is fit to feature despite suffering a hamstring scare with France. At Manchester City, manager Enzo Maresca offered reassurance regarding Erling Haaland, stating that the striker is in good condition after returning early from Norway duty and enjoying two recovery days in Marbella.
Manchester United are dealing with an extensive absentee list ahead of their fixture against Tottenham. Erik ten Hag’s side will be without Patrick Dorgu, Noussair Mazraoui, and Benjamin Sesko. Sesko remains sidelined with an ongoing shin issue that forced him to withdraw from international service, while Dorgu and Mazraoui picked up injuries while playing for Denmark and Morocco respectively. Further doubts linger over Marcus Rashford, Kobbie Mainoo, and Amad Diallo.
Boosts and Returns Across the Country
At the other end of the country, Newcastle United have received a timely boost. Manager Matthias Jaissle confirmed that Brazilian midfielder Joelinton has resumed full training after missing the entirety of the campaign so far with a muscle injury. Jaissle highlighted the leadership and defensive qualities of Joelinton, stressing that the squad must manage his workload carefully as he reintegrates into competitive action following an injury-plagued start to the season for the Magpies.
Relegation and Mid-Table Updates
Relegation and mid-table battles are equally impacted by international fixtures. Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris confirmed that defender Dan Ballard will be sidelined for a few weeks after picking up a hamstring injury during Northern Ireland’s 1-0 Nations League win over Georgia. On a brighter note for Sunderland, Brian Brobbey avoided a long-term absence after also sustaining a hamstring issue with the Netherlands, with club medical staff anticipating a short-term recovery. Meanwhile, Crystal Palace boss Pierre Sage announced that Ismaïla Sarr is ready to start following his best training week, though Jean-Philippe Mateta, Dean Henderson, and Takehiro Tomiyasu remain unavailable for the weekend visit of Nottingham Forest, as detailed by BBC Sport.