Why is Dan Burn Not Playing for Newcastle vs Fulham Tonight?

Newcastle United fans have been left asking one major question ahead of their crucial Carabao Cup quarter-final: Why is Dan Burn not playing for Newcastle vs Fulham tonight?

As the Magpies prepare to host the Cottagers at St James' Park, the absence of their defensive "colossus" is a significant blow for Eddie Howe. If you are looking for an update on “Is Dan Burn playing today?”, the unfortunate answer for Newcastle supporters is no. He has been officially ruled out of the squad and is currently under the care of the club’s medical staff as he begins his recovery from the lung and rib issues. Eddie Howe described losing Dan Burn as a "big blow", emphasising that he has been an "ever-present" figure in the lineup throughout the season.

The Reason for Dan Burn's Absence

A serious injury brought about by the absence he sustained in the very heated Tyne-Wear derby against Sunderland this past weekend. In the first half of the mentioned match, Burn clashed heavily with Sunderland’s Nordi Mukiele.

While the defender initially tried to continue, he was forced off in the 41st minute. Reports later confirmed the severity of the Dan Burn injury: he suffered a fractured rib and a punctured lung. So severe was the injury that Burn was rushed to the hospital after the game, as Eddie Howe noted the player was "struggling to breathe" at half-time.

Newcastle vs Fulham: The Stakes

The clash with Fulham on the night presents a high-stakes affair for Newcastle, who are keen to advance to the semi-finals as defending Carabao Cup champions to keep their hopes alive of claiming back-to-back silverware.

However, the injury to Dan Burn adds to a growing defensive crisis at the club. With Sven Botman and Kieran Trippier also ruled out, Eddie Howe is down to the "bare bones" of his squad. The few fans who check to see "Is Dan Burn playing today?" will find Fabian Schar or Lewis Hall stepping in to fill in for the 6'7" defender.

Meanwhile, Fulham need to capitalise on that depletion at the back for Newcastle. While the Cottagers have also suffered with their fair share of inconsistency, the absence of Burn's leadership and aerial dominance gives Marco Silva's side an open avenue to target.