NEWCASTLE United manager Steve Bruce insists his side “probably have more injuries” than Saints ahead of the sides’ showdown on Tyneside tomorrow (3pm).

Five defensive options could be out for the Magpies when the St Mary’s side head to St James’ Park.

Jamal Lewis has a hamstring problem while Federico Fernandez still is not fully fit following the coronavirus outbreak at the club.

Jamaal Lascelles has a hamstring issue while Paul Dummett may also not feature for the home side .

Defender Ciaran Clark is also uncertain to play after his partner went into labour.

Bruce said: "Clark's partner has gone into labour but we hope he'll make it still.

“Fede (Fernandez) isn't ready and Jamal Lewis has a hamstring problem, we hope he'll make it.

“Lascelles won't make it either. Dummett is struggling. We're still depleted defensively."

Saints had an array of defenders out for Tuesday’s 9-0 hammering at Manchester United – but Jannik Vestergaard and Kyle Walker-Peters could be back to face Newcastle.

Jan Bednarek’s red card ha also been overturned.

Ralph Hasenhuttl is however set to be without the likes of Stuart Armstrong, Theo Walcott, Mohammed Salisu and Ibrahima Diallo, through injury for the clash with the Magpies.

Will Smallbone and Michael Obafemi are long-term absentees.

Bruce added: “When you look at Southampton on the night, they had two men sent-off and lots of injuries.

“They'll want a response and they have players fit again and a red card overturned.

“We probably have more injuries than they have now. I'm only interested in how we go about it though."