Newcastle United have been dealt a major blow in the efforts to keep up their position in the Champions League places. One of the most impressive players of the season, Gabriel Obertan has been ruled out with an injury.
The midfielder, who was signed from Manchester United, has had an exceptional season for Newcastle United. So far, he has been extremely influential in enabling Newcastle United get to third in the table – a ridiculously high position for a team that was expected to struggle.
It has been reported that Gabriel Obertan would be facing up to 3 weeks on the sidelines, although the blow is slightly softened by the fact that there is the international break for two weeks of that, which will help Newcastle bring Obertan back to fitness before the Premier League season resumes.
His best performance in the season so far came in the match against Stoke City, when he helped Newcastle secure an impressive three points. The 3-1 victory almost brought an end to the doubters, who had been previously sceptical of Newcastle’s ability to keep their position in the top four.
Along with the injury to Gabriel Obertan, Newcastle also have to deal with the injury to Shola Ameobi. The striker still remains unavailable to play in the match against Everton, although this will be little worry for Alan Pardew, who has Demba Ba in impressive form.
Regarding the injury to Gabriel Obertan, Alan Pardew said, “Unfortunately, he’s picked up a toe infection and will miss Saturday. He might even miss the next two games. It’s really unfortunate – I thought he was outstanding against Stoke.”
Cheik Tiote is another concern for Alan Pardew, as the midfielder missed the match against Stoke with a slight knock to the knee.
