Newcastle's dream frontline of Harvey Barnes, William Osula and Anthony Elanga may be placed on hold again

Newcastle United boss Matthias Jaissle has revealed why he hooked Harvey Barnes at half-time during the 3-1 loss at Everton.

Barnes had easily been Newcastle's best player in the first half, and eyebrows were raised as he was taken off during the interval, with Jacob Murphy staying on. Anthony Elanga's appearance from the bench at least got vital minutes in his legs and Jaissle has already dropped a hint on his starting line-up against the Toffees for what has now turned into a revenge encounter against the Toffees.

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Explaining the decision to hook him, Jaissle said on Barnes: "There are many aspects in consideration. We have players coming back from injuries, so we need to give people game time so that they can bring fresh energy.

"In the game, Harvey was doing well in the first half, but of course we also play on Monday again, so it is something you need to bear in mind."

Between now and Monday night, Newcastle will assess William Osula's ankle injury after he trudged off with a knock following James Tarkowski's challenge in the cup tie. Matias Fernandez-Pardo and Lewis Miley will also be in the treatment room as Jaissle weighs up their availability.

He said: "Hopefully they can make progress in the next few days to be able to make it in the squad, but right now I cannot update you."

The loss of Osula already would be a major blow, and with Barnes and Elanga close to full fitness, Jaissle's first-choice frontline may have to be put on hold again.

Osula had been sidelined since the Liverpool game on the opening day with a foot injury before making his return against Coventry City. That welcome return, though, could now be short-lived with Jaissle concerned about the striker on Thursday night.

Osula had netted in his first start as Newcastle beat Crystal Palace 2-0 but had a poor game against the Toffees, managing just seven touches and then going off with a whack.

Jaissle would have to consider playing Yoane Wissa as the lone striker on Monday if Osula and Fernandez-Pardo don't make it.