Jacob Murphy was not dropped for Newcastle United's 2-2 draw at Leeds United - Eddie Howe has revealed.
The popular Toon winger was named on the bench but did not even get cameo at Elland Road. But the decision was made based on the player's fitness levels after suffering a slight muscle injury.
Murphy has been in incredible form for Newcastle recently with a clutch of goals and assists in the Champions League run-in. But Howe, who replaced him with Miguel Almiron, had little choice but to tweak things.
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Speaking after the game, Howe said: “Jacob just had a sore groin today. That’s why he didn’t enter the pitch."
Injuries are mounting up for Newcastle with Jamaal Lascelles out for the season with a calf injury while Matt Ritchie is also sidelined for the remainder of the campaign with an ankle problem.
Sean Longstaff has a foot problem while Emil Krafth was always expected to miss the majority of the season. The injury situation has left Howe's squad a little depleted with recently recalled loan star Joe White back in training after a stint with Exeter City.
And 17-year-old Lewis Miley a regular at Benton after signing a new professional deal. The exciting attacking midfield player was even drafted into the squad for the score draw at Leeds but just missed out on the bench.
