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Lee Ryder

Newcastle United have one big injury doubt ahead of clash at Elland Road

Newcastle United have a big injury doubt ahead of their clash at Leeds with Matt Ritchie struggling with a knee injury.

The former AFC Bournemouth star was an unused substitute during the 1-1 draw with Watford last weekend but looks to be touch and go for the game at Elland Road.

One big plus is the re-emergence of Dwight Gayle, who has history of scoring at this venue, while Jeff Hendrick, who scored in the 5-2 defeat against Leeds in the corresponding fixture is also back.

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When asked about injuries and availability, Howe said: "We're not too bad – a couple of players have returned to the training ground.

"Dwight Gayle we've had back in training this week, Jeff Hendrick returned to training this week.

"Matt Ritchie's got a knee problem so we'll have to assess how he is, and of course we're missing the long-termers – Fede Fernández, Callum Wilson and Isaac Hayden. "

Newcastle take on a Leeds side that are fresh from beating West Ham at the London Stadium last Sunday.

Howe has respect for the Yorkshire club and said: "I think they have a way of playing and they follow that.

"There's a lot to admire about Leeds' out-of-possession work.

"It's really intriguing.

"They play with really high intensity, and we have to match that.

"With the ball, they've got their set patterns and way of playing and it's very, very effective.

"This is a totally unique game – I think there's no other game like Leeds in the Premier League – and we have to be ready for what we're going to face."

Leeds have used seven different formations this season and Marcelo Bielsa will have had the Magpies watched intensely in the build-up to the game.

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