Enrique boost for Magpies

Kinnear rues missing key players

Last updated: 30th September 2008

Enrique boost for Magpies

Enrique: Fit for Magpies

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Newcastle United interim manager Joe Kinnear expects only Jose Enrique to return from injury against Everton.

Kinnear has been handed the task of steering the Magpies through uncertain waters during owner Mike Ashley's attempts to sell the club.

The former Wimbledon boss watched from the stands last Saturday as Newcastle slipped to a 2-1 home defeat by Blackburn Rovers.

A trip to Goodison Park is in store on Sunday, and Kinnear admits only one of the club's injured players will be back in his plans.

"I have had a long chat with Chris Hughton and our medical team and the only one of the injured players we are likely to have back at Everton on Sunday is Jose Enrique," said Kinnear.

"That will give us a boost, as will having Danny Guthrie back from suspension.

"Unfortunately, the key players we have got missing could make us a better side. Chris says there are six players who, if fit, could be in the team."

Fuss

Kinnear also brushed off criticism of his decision to allow the players a day off on Monday, following the home loss against Blackburn.

He added: "What's all the fuss about?

"After Saturday's game, we all sat down and decided to give the players a day off on Monday for a variety of reasons.

"One is the fact that we are not playing until Sunday this week.

"And then it gave me the chance to go into the training ground yesterday and have a long chat with all my coaching and backroom staff.

"As a result, I knew all I had to know when the players came in today."