Matt Targett has become the latest Newcastle player to suffer an injury that could keep him out of action for some time. The left-back had been carrying a slight niggle for a while now and was seen leaving St James’ Park in a protective boot after the 0-0 draw with Leeds.
Speaking after the game, Howe said: “Matt Targett has a heel problem. He’s been managing it for a couple of months but it’s got to the point where it’s too painful for him to carry on. When I say a couple of months, I’m including the break in that as well.” via [NewcastleWorld]
Targett signed for the Magpies on a permanent deal in the summer, having impressed greatly during a loan spell at the club last season. This season, however, the 27-year-old has fallen behind Dan Burn for the left-back position and hasn’t started a game since September.
Targett’s injury follows the recent news that Jonjo Shelvey is also due to miss a significant chunk of the remainder of the season through an injury of his own. With Emil Krafth already out for the season due to a cruciate injury, Paul Dummett’s continued back problems, and Alexander Isak just returning after a long spell on the sidelines, the January Transfer Window might just be coming at the right time.
When pushed on whether Targett’s injury might mean a change of plans for the January window, Howe added: “Not currently. We’re not close to anything. So yeah, we’ll see how the window unfolds.”
In my opinion, it is strange that the club didn’t take advantage of the World Cup break to treat Targett’s heel injury. Why wait until there is a hectic spell of games coming up over the Christmas period? It was a very risky move.
With the likes of Jamal Lewis, Matt Ritchie, and possibly Javier Manquillo being the squad’s only other possible left-back options, let’s just pray that Dan Burn remains fit and healthy for the foreseeable.