After Newcastle United stunned Crystal Palace 0-2 on Friday night, the coach of Newcastle, Steve Bruce, confirmed that the club went into the match with four confirmed cases of coronavirus. The tactician confirmed that three of the club’s players tested positive while a member of staff also tested positive for the virus.
However, the four people that tested positive for the virus did not play any part in the Premier League match that ended in favor of Newcastle away at Selhurst Park Stadium. They started self-isolating immediately they tested positive a few days before the Premier League match.
Steve Bruce who did not name the players and the staff that tested positive for the virus, said the invasion of coronavirus in the team has made preparations for games a bit difficult because they are trying to win games and also stay safe from the virus.
“It has been a tough week,” Bruce said. “We sincerely hope so. It is very difficult at the minute. We have three confirmed players and unfortunately a member of my staff.
“It is a concern and difficult to manage. We are trying our utmost to make sure we try and stay as safe as we can.
“Of course my concern is not just the welfare of the players, which is vitally important, but my members of staff too. We will do our best but it is difficult at the moment.”
The three players could miss Newcastle United’s Premier League match against Aston Villa on December 4 and probably miss Newcastle’s league match against West Brom on December 12.
Based on how well Newcastle United was able to play against Crystal Palace on Friday night, it is possible that the absence of the three players might not be felt in their next two matches.
Newcastle was able to hold the in-form Crystal Palace until late in the 88th minute before they stunned Palace with the first goal through the boots of Callum Wilson. The club’s Brazilian striker Joelinton assisted Wilson for the heartbreaking goal.
At the tail end of the match, Callum Wilson returned the favor by assisting Joelinton who did not hesitate to grab Newcastle’s second goal of the match in the 90th minute.
1️⃣ Goal
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) November 27, 2020
1️⃣ Assist
Yes, Joe! 👊🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/FxRbHOpib8
“Sometimes you need time – it doesn’t matter about the price tag,” the club’s coach Steve Bruce said.
“In Joe’s case, the price tag and number nine shirt meant he struggled at times. But the kid wants to do well. He had a lot of opportunities tonight but we are starting to see him now with his strength.”
“There is no disputing that Joelinton has found it difficult. But I’ve said many times that some take a little more time than others. We’re delighted he’s scored a goal.”
Joelinton ➡️ Wilson
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) November 27, 2020
Wilson ➡️ Joelinton pic.twitter.com/c2epcW5Leb
