Newcastle United manager Matthias Jaissle has revealed his relief after Anthony Elanga avoided what initially looked like a serious injury during the club’s pre-season victory over Valencia.
The Sweden international was forced off in the first half of Newcastle’s 2-1 win after suffering a heavy challenge from Jose Gaya.
The incident immediately raised concerns, with Elanga requiring a stretcher to leave the pitch.
However, the situation quickly became more encouraging.
Newcastle later received positive indications about the winger’s condition, with Elanga seen back on his feet and walking after suffering a contusion to his shin.
The severity of the challenge had initially left Newcastle’s coaching staff fearing the worst.
Jaissle admitted he was concerned when Elanga went down, particularly given the force of the tackle and the fact that the winger had to be carried from the field.
However, the Newcastle boss was able to provide a much more positive update after the game.
“I’m really happy that there are no serious injuries,” Jaissle declared.
“Anthony, we are happy, and it seems to be okay actually – that was the most important thing.
“It seems to be not bad, so we are pleased. I hope it’s true, then he can start again next week.”
The comments will come as welcome news to Newcastle supporters, particularly with the new season approaching.
Jaissle also admitted that his initial reaction was one of genuine fear that Elanga could have suffered a significant injury.
The Newcastle manager’s mood changed, however, after receiving encouraging information from the club’s medical staff.
The German added: “Of course I was in fear [it was a serious injury], definitely, but now I’m more relaxed as the medical department is showing almost green lights, and there’s nothing serious.”
With the medical assessment pointing towards a less severe problem, Newcastle can now hope Elanga will return to training soon.
The winger’s recovery will nevertheless be monitored carefully, particularly after such a heavy challenge.
The incident provided a reminder of the physical risks involved even during pre-season fixtures.
Newcastle were using the Valencia clash to sharpen preparations for the campaign ahead, but the immediate priority changed when Elanga was forced off.
Fortunately, the early signs suggest the winger has avoided a major setback.
His ability to get back on his feet after the injury offered further encouragement, although Newcastle will be cautious about rushing him back.
Despite the scare involving Elanga, Newcastle left Valencia with a positive result after securing a 2-1 victory.
For Jaissle, the biggest takeaway was arguably the fitness of his squad.
A serious injury at this stage of preparations could have disrupted Elanga’s season before it had even begun. Instead, the Newcastle boss can breathe easier.
The medical department’s encouraging assessment means Elanga could potentially resume work next week, provided his recovery continues without complications.
For now, Newcastle have every reason to remain optimistic.
What looked like a potentially damaging injury has, at least initially, turned into a much more manageable scare.
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