Jaissle on injuries, showing 'clear reaction' and faith in Botman

Newcastle United boss Matthias Jaissle has been speaking to the media before Saturday's Premier League game against Hull City at St James' Park (kick-off 15:00 BST). Here are the key lines from his news conference: There is "no real update" on Anthony Elanga, who missed out on the matchday squad last time out. Jaissle said: "I've just spoken to him and he is having an MRI in the next 30 minutes, so we will get more clarity then." When asked if there are any players returning from injury, he replied: "Unfortunately not. It doesn't look that good, if I'm being frank, but maybe a miracle will happen." Amar Dedic is still sidelined with a minor hamstring injury. Nico Gonzalez is following the Premier League's concussion protocols. Jacob Ramsey is dealing with a thigh injury. With the growing injury list, the international break comes at a good time. If that had not been the case, Jaissle would have liked to "continue playing and improving". He hopes the list will be "a bit shorter" in three weeks' time, with captain Dan Burn possibly back in contention. The defender is working "so hard and so professionally" to be back fit. On bouncing back after the 4-1 loss at Leeds last time out: "We are fully committed to showing a clear reaction in front of our fans. It would be nice to finish this block of fixtures, before the international break, with a good result. We are optimistic, even with some injury challenges." When asked if he would contemplate a change in system after a heavy defeat, such as changing to a back three, he quickly replied: "No, that would absolutely be the wrong approach. The formation isn't the key element, it is how the players live the principles." Newcastle did "anticipate some ups and downs along the way" this season, given their young squad. He added: "I'm sure the fans will stick with our young players and support us 100%. From what I've experienced so far, they have a good sense of our situation and our challenges. I'm really happy we play at home this weekend." When quizzed on Sven Botman's recent performances, he replied: "I'm fully convinced about his performances. If a player has a down-spell, that is totally normal in a season because we are all human beings. He is still a brilliant player with huge potential. He is a warrior, that's what I appreciate about him." Sergej Jakirovic is doing "an incredible job" in his first Premier League season with Hull City, who "have a clear identity" and "know exactly what their strengths are". Jaissle said Newcastle's job will be to take their strengths away and use their weaknesses in the best way possible. There is a chance 17-year-old academy players Mason Miley and Michael Mills will be included in the matchday squad again. Jaissle explained: "If there is space in the squad, they will get the chance. We have a close bridge with the academy at this club." Listen to a section of Jaissle's news conference above or listen on BBC Sounds Listen to commentary of Newcastle United v Hull City on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra 2 from 14:55 BST Got a question about Newcastle? Get in touch here and we'll seek answers from our experts [BBC]
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