Heading into another hectic period between now and the new year, it’s fair to say our current injury crisis could not have come at a much worse time.
Dan Burn’s rib injury sustained at the Stadium of Light is just the latest in a growing list of absentees Eddie Howe will have to work without across each of the Premier League, Champions League and domestic cup competitions, with Botman, Trippier, Krafth, Osula and Pope also sidelined.
One boost, however, is that DR Congo’s Yoane Wissa will miss the African Cup of Nations, which brings us to a few issues in Fulham’s squad now that three of Marco Silva’s key men have left to represent their country.
Key Fulham trio to miss out
Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey and Samuel Chukwueze will each be missing from the Fulham squad after they were all called up by Nigeria, whose tournament begins next Tuesday against Tanzania.
It’s a mini boost to our chances of making the semi-finals, as all three players have played a key role at both ends of the pitch in recent weeks, with Bassey their physically dominant centre-back, Iwobi impressing in midfield and winger Chukwueze grabbing a goal or an assist in four of Fulham’s last five league games.
We’re all too familiar with what Chukwueze can do to us in cup competition as well, as the former AC Milan star was the architect behind our Champions League exit two seasons ago as he scored late at St James’ Park.
The visitors will also be without striker Rodrigo Muniz and the versatile Ryan Sessegnon. Fullback Antonee Robinson meanwhile has only just recently returned, and questions will be asked of Raul Jimenez’s own fitness and ability to play multiple games a week at 34.
Newcastle’s injury issues
Howe will be needing a huge shift from the quartet of Lewis Hall, Fabian Schar, Malick Thiaw and Tino Livramento over the next few weeks, as they are our only fit senior defenders right now.
The injury to the aforementioned Burn, coupled with Sven Botman, Kieran Trippier and Emil Krafth also suffering with their own fitness concerns has left us with a paper thin squad once again.
Nick Pope remains a doubt to return between the sticks in time for the midweek game, though he’ll no doubt be pushing to return for the following games against Chelsea and Manchester United.
Howe has previously admitted that he can’t yet afford Wissa 90 minutes so soon after his return from injury, whilst Nick Woltemade is clearly fatigued from being the sole striker option for so long: so it begs the question, just when Will Osula return from his reported ankle injury?
The young Dane has been tenuously linked with a move to the Bundesliga in January, but these midweek games against Premier League opposition are exactly when we need a player of his calibre ready and available.
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Highest Paying Jobs in the UK 2026 (No Degree Required) – Full Hiring Guide
The UK job market in 2026 is creating strong opportunities for workers without university degrees. Due to labor shortages, rising wages, and demand across key industries, many roles now offer competitive salaries, stable contracts, and visa sponsorship options for qualified workers.
This guide focuses on real, in-demand UK jobs that pay well, require little or no formal education, and are suitable for both UK residents and international applicants.
1. HGV (Truck) Driver Jobs in the UK
Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) drivers remain among the highest-paid non-degree workers in the UK. Supermarkets, logistics firms, construction companies, and fuel suppliers continue to face driver shortages, pushing wages higher each year.
Salary Range
- £38,000 – £65,000 per year
- Overtime and night shifts can exceed £70,000
Requirements
- UK HGV Class 1 or Class 2 licence
- Driver CPC qualification
- No university degree required
Why This Job Pays Well
Long hours, responsibility, and supply chain importance make HGV driving one of the best-paid manual professions in the UK. Employers often cover training costs.
2. Construction Site Supervisor (Experience-Based)
Construction supervisors oversee daily site operations, safety compliance, and workforce coordination. Many professionals rise into this role through experience rather than formal education.
Salary Range
- £40,000 – £60,000 per year
Requirements
- Construction site experience
- CSCS or SSSTS certification
- No degree required
Construction jobs attract high advertising bids due to insurance, equipment, training, and recruitment demand.
3. Security Control Room Operator
Unlike basic security guard roles, control room operators monitor CCTV systems, coordinate emergency responses, and manage access control for large facilities, airports, and business centers.
Salary Range
- £35,000 – £50,000 per year
Requirements
- SIA licence
- Basic IT and communication skills
- No academic degree required
4. Warehouse Operations Manager (Promotion-Based)
Many warehouse managers start as pickers or supervisors and move up through performance. E-commerce growth has pushed logistics salaries significantly higher.
Salary Range
- £42,000 – £58,000 per year
Industries Hiring
- Amazon fulfilment centres
- Supermarket distribution hubs
- Import and export warehouses
5. Care Home Manager (NVQ Route)
Care home managers oversee elderly and assisted living facilities. This role follows vocational certification routes rather than university education.
Salary Range
- £45,000 – £65,000 per year
Why It Pays Well
An aging population and staff shortages have pushed salaries higher, especially in private care homes.
6. Roofing & Specialist Trades
Roofers, scaffolders, and specialist trade workers earn premium wages due to physical demand and skill shortages.
Salary Range
- £180 – £300 per day
- Annual income up to £70,000
7. Taxi & Private Hire Drivers (High-Demand Cities)
London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds offer strong earning potential for licensed private hire drivers.
Salary Range
- £35,000 – £55,000 per year
Visa Sponsorship for UK Jobs
Some UK employers offer sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route. While not all jobs qualify, roles in logistics, healthcare support, construction, and technical operations may be eligible depending on employer approval.
How to Apply for High-Paying UK Jobs
- Apply directly on company career websites
- Register with UK recruitment agencies
- Obtain necessary licences before applying
- Prepare a UK-style CV
In 2026, high-paying jobs in the UK are no longer limited to university graduates. With the right skills, certifications, and experience, workers can secure stable, well-paid roles across logistics, construction, healthcare support, and security sectors.
For job seekers aiming to work in the UK or improve their income, focusing on short-term training and high-demand industries remains the smartest path.
