Congolese forward Yoane Wissa ruled out for Newcastle until after October international break

Newcastle United forward Yoane Wissa will not make his long-awaited debut until after the October international break, with manager Eddie Howe confirming the Congolese striker’s recovery will take longer than initially expected.

Wissa, who joined the Magpies from Brentford in the summer, picked up a knee injury while on international duty with the Democratic Republic of Congo last month.

The setback has prevented the 29-year-old from featuring in black and white since his arrival at St James’ Park.

Howe explained that the player’s rehabilitation is progressing well, though medical checks have pushed his expected return further back.

“Yoane saw a specialist again yesterday for a check-up on his knee. We probably think now it’ll be eight weeks rather than six. No recurrence or problem, just slightly longer,” Howe said.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano also reported that the timetable for Wissa’s return has been extended, noting that the forward will be unavailable until after the international window.

The update comes as a blow for Howe, who had hoped to integrate Wissa quickly into his attacking set-up.

In the meantime, fellow summer signing Nick Woltemade has stepped up in Wissa’s absence, scoring three goals in six appearances.

The 23-year-old German striker is expected to continue leading the line when Newcastle face Nottingham Forest this weekend as they attempt to climb into the top half of the Premier League table.

Despite the disappointment of waiting longer to see Wissa in action, Newcastle remain optimistic that the experienced forward will prove a valuable addition once fit.

With matches against Forest, West Ham and Brighton looming, Howe will rely on Woltemade and his current attacking options, while Wissa works towards a comeback after the break.