Newcastle United are facing a tense wait over several key players ahead of their crucial UEFA Champions League clash with Barcelona.

Eddie Howe’s side travel to the Camp Nou for the second leg of their last-16 tie with the score level at 1-1 after a dramatic first meeting at St James’ Park. Despite picking up an important Premier League win against Chelsea at the weekend, injuries and illness are beginning to pile up for the Magpies.

Sandro Tonali missed the win at Stamford Bridge due to illness, which is believed to be part of a bug circulating within the squad. However, there is optimism that the Italian midfielder will recover in time to feature against Barcelona.

Bruno Guimarães has been out for more than a month after suffering a hamstring injury against Tottenham Hotspur. While he is expected to travel with the squad to Spain, he is unlikely to return to action until after the international break, with an April comeback currently the target.

There are also concerns over Joe Willock, who was forced off late in the win over Chelsea with a thigh problem. His condition is still being assessed, but there is hope he could be available for the Barcelona match.

Lewis Miley remains sidelined after picking up muscle damage in January. Although he has returned to light training, he is not yet back with the main group, meaning his return date remains uncertain.

In defence, Fabian Schär continues his recovery from ankle surgery and is not expected back until April. Emil Krafth, meanwhile, is likely to miss the rest of the season after undergoing knee surgery.

With several midfielders unavailable, Howe may have limited options heading into one of Newcastle’s biggest matches of the season. The tie remains finely balanced, but their chances of progressing could depend on how quickly their injured players return.