Reaching a third Carabao Cup semi-final in four years has since lifted the sombre mood around the training ground. But holders Newcastle have a quick turnaround before of Saturday's visit of Chelsea and Howe's side are running out of senior defenders.

Newcastle United v Chelsea: Eddie Howe’s side return to Premier League action on Saturday when they host Chelsea at St James’ Park. Newcastle United host Chelsea at St James’ Park on Saturday in the middle of a defensive injury crisis that has depleted Eddie Howe ’s options.

NEWCASTLE are considering recalling Matt Targett from loan at Middlesbrough as Eddie Howe’s defensive nightmare worsened. The Mags only had three fit senior defenders available for the Carabao Cup

A banner day for Regis Le Bris and Sunderland will prove a new challenge for their Wear-Tyne derby rivals as Eddie Howe and Newcastle were dropped 1-0 by the Black Cats at the Stadium of Light.

Eddie Howe and Nick Woltemade felt the love from Newcastle supporters during the Carabao Cup victory over Fulham

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has admitted that he is 'unsure' about his squad's 'mentality' amid a miserable run away from home. The Magpies have won just one away Premier League fixture since mid-April and their latest derby loss to Sunderland last weekend further rubbed salt into their wounds.

Eddie Howe's side needed to win after Sunday's ignominy on Wearside, and they did. They really had no alternative

And three of those have come in the last four seasons under Eddie Howe, the head coach who masterminded last season's first domestic trophy win in 70 years. As well as leading United to silverware at