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Shearer’s Defensive Crisis Thursday 21st May 2009
Newcastle United will have to rely on reserve team defenders when they face Aston Villa on Sunday in their crucial relegation showdown.
Twenty-two-year-old Sebastien Bassong failed to get his red card rescinded after his sending off against Fulham last weekend.
Defender Habib Beye is also struggling with a hamstring injury that could see him miss out on the game at Villa Park.
Magpies fans will be devastated to see two key defenders out of the game in Birmingham – Newcastle need at least a point to stay in the Premier League, but if Hull manage to beat Manchester United then the Toon Army will be spending next season in the Championship regardless of their result.
Fantasy Stakes players should note that Newcastle have conceded a massive 58 goals in the league this term and without Beye and Bassong the chances of a clean sheet are extremely slim.
Frenchman Bassong has played 30 times so far this campaign and is regarded on Tyneside as a key player.
But his red card for a foul on Fulham’s Diomansy Kamara was upheld by the FA who argued that the challenge prevented a clear goal scoring opportunity.
Alan Shearer is also sweating on the fitness of strikers Michael Owen and Obafemi Martins in the build up to Sunday’s game.
However, the former England international is still clinging on to hope. He said: “It is going to the last fixture of the season and we have to get a better result than Hull. But I’m sure there will be one or two twists and turns on the final day.”
Fantasy Stakes players considering picking Newcastle defenders may change their minds now that Bassong and Beye are out.
Villa have won six home games this season and another three points on Sunday would be curtains for the Magpies.
