Newcastle will wait to learn the extent of Callum Wilson’s hamstring injury before deciding whether to change their transfer plans.
The striker complained of muscle tightness at half-time during Sunday’s 3-3 draw with Manchester City and was withdrawn on 70 minutes.
Wilson has a history of hamstring issues and, while there is hope the problem is not serious, there is still concern that the No.9 could be sidelined for a period of time.
The Magpies are currently in discussions over a deal for Watford forward Joao Pedro - the clubs remain apart on the fee - and head coach Eddie Howe was asked on Tuesday if Wilson’s injury could affect their transfer strategy.
‘We will wait and see the extent of Callum’s injury before answering that question,’ he said. ‘I don’t think it will be serious, but with hamstrings you have to be very careful. We will wait and see the results and see how long he’s going to be out. We hope it’s not too serious.’
Wilson has scored twice from three games this season and has stated his ambition to make the England squad for November’s World Cup. Gareth Southgate was at St James’ Park to check on the 30-year-old and others at the weekend, and he will also be eager to learn the nature of the injury.
Chris Wood will deputise for Newcastle when they face Tranmere in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday, and Howe added: ‘Chris has a massive part to play and, when he came on for Callum on Sunday, I thought he performed very well. He made a positive impact and linked play very well and made a couple of lovely passes.
‘The big thing with Chris when he comes on is also defending set-plays, recovering into midfield positions to help the team, he has that know-how and experience.’
Howe, meanwhile, has revealed that he has allowed himself to dream of ending Newcastle’s 54-year wait for a trophy.
‘Visualisation and having those high expectations, naturally, you do have to do that,’ he said. ‘You have to see it in your own head and believe it's possible.
‘I'm not afraid to say that visualisation and imagining those things are very important. I wouldn't say I do it regularly. It's not necessarily a daily occurrence but it's when you envisage the future, you just try and see what you can achieve and certainly it's one of my dreams.’