Newcastle United are potentially just 75 days away from strongest XI returning to the field

The Magpies have a number of key players out injured who are set to return in the coming months

Newcastle United have made a steady start to the Premier League campaign but have had to do so without fielding their strongest starting XI so far this season.

Eddie Howe's side could realistically have played half of the campaign before we see the Toon back to full strength. Callum Wilson, Sven Botman, Jamaal Lascelles and Lewis Miley have all missed the start of the season, though are nearing a return.

Alexander Isak, Kieran Trippier and Martin Dubravka are also among the Magpies' injured contingent, though have already featured this season. Newcastle's strike force of Wilson and Isak are the closest to returning to action, with the current international break giving them time to return to full fitness and they should be in contention for the clash with Brighton.

"Alexander will miss the game tomorrow," Howe said in his pre-match press conference ahead of the recent draw with Everton. "We're] hoping he'll be back for the game after the international break, same with Callum Wilson."

Trippier has reportedly suffered a hamstring strain in the draw with Everton, though club sources are going to see how the injury settles over the international break. Depending on the severity of the injury, it could be vary from weeks to months on the sidelines.

"He said he felt something but you're going off gestures and actions," Howe said in the immediate aftermath at Goodison Park. "He went down and felt his hamstring but I haven't spoken to him about that."

Botman is the final long-term injury absentee who you would say strengthens Newcastle's starting XI. The centre-half has been out of action since March earlier this year after needing an operation on his ACL.

The Dutch centre-half is stepping up his recovery and a return at Christmas is not entirely out of the question. A Boxing Day home game against Aston Villa a potential return date for him.

Days until Boxing Day clash with Aston Villa: 75 days.

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