Newcastle United’s defensive issues continue to mount at a difficult stage of the season, leaving Eddie Howe facing yet another challenge as the fixture list intensifies.
The Magpies are already stretched at the back due to a growing injury list. Dan Burn is expected to be sidelined for up to six weeks after suffering a punctured lung and a broken rib. Sven Botman is still managing a persistent back issue, while Emil Krafth and Kieran Trippier are both unlikely to return until the new year. Tino Livramento also became a concern after limping off with a knee problem in the recent victory over Fulham.
Now, despite avoiding injury, Fabian Schär has emerged as the latest defensive absentee — this time due to suspension.
The Swiss centre-back will miss Newcastle’s Carabao Cup semi-final first-leg tie against Manchester City after accumulating two yellow cards in the competition. Schär was booked during the 2–0 win over Tottenham in the last 16 and again in the quarter-final victory against Fulham, triggering an automatic suspension under tournament rules.
The semi-final, scheduled for the week beginning 12 January, is still several weeks away, but the timing could prove problematic. Burn is unlikely to be fit in time, while Botman’s return date remains uncertain, adding further pressure to Howe’s defensive planning.
Schär’s absence could be significant. He played a key role alongside Thiaw in last month’s 2–1 home win over Manchester City, a performance that successfully limited the threat of Erling Haaland. Replicating that defensive solidity without the experienced 33-year-old will not be easy, particularly if Newcastle are still dealing with multiple injuries.
With a packed schedule across domestic and European competitions, Newcastle can ill afford further setbacks. Squad depth and careful management will be crucial in the weeks ahead as Howe looks to navigate a demanding run of fixtures.
Newcastle United upcoming fixtures
December
- Saturday 20 December – Newcastle vs Chelsea (12:30pm, TNT Sports) – Premier League
- Friday 26 December – Manchester United vs Newcastle (8:00pm, Sky Sports) – Premier League
- Tuesday 30 December – Burnley vs Newcastle (7:30pm, Sky Sports) – Premier League
January 2026
- Sunday 4 January – Newcastle vs Crystal Palace (3:00pm, Sky Sports) – Premier League
- Wednesday 7 January – Newcastle vs Leeds (8:15pm, Sky Sports) – Premier League
- Saturday 10 January – Newcastle vs Bournemouth (3:00pm) – FA Cup
- Week commencing 12 January – Newcastle vs Manchester City (TBC) – Carabao Cup semi-final (first leg)
- Sunday 18 January – Wolves vs Newcastle (2:00pm, Sky Sports) – Premier League
- Wednesday 21 January – Newcastle vs PSV Eindhoven (8:00pm, TNT Sports) – Champions League
- Sunday 25 January – Newcastle vs Aston Villa (2:00pm, Sky Sports) – Premier League
- Wednesday 28 January – PSG vs Newcastle (8:00pm, TNT Sports) – Champions League
- Saturday 31 January – Liverpool vs Newcastle (8:00pm, TNT Sports) – Premier League
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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.
