Eddie Howe has issued updates on several Newcastle United stars ahead of tomorrow’s clash with Fulham – and it’s largely positive after a injury-riddled international break.
He’s confirmed that Bruno Guimaraes has trained well after returning from Brazil with a thigh complaint, confirming he’ll be in the squad at Craven Cottage.
Callum Wilson has also been passed fit to play after a month on the sidelines, with Howe revealing what a “huge boost” it’s given the group to see him back.
Alexander Isak’s injury “doesn’t look too bad.” It seems it’ll keep him out of tomorrow’s game, but the boss seems hopeful he won’t be missing for long, however late fitness tests will be needed to determine whether Allan Saint-Maximin or Chris Wood can feature. Both are deemed doubts for the game, but Howe insists that ASM is “very close” to returning.
Elsewhere, Elliot Anderson is available once again, having recovered from a minor knock that kept him out of that 1-1 draw with Bournemouth before the break.
Here’s what Howe’s had to say on all of the above:
Howe on Bruno Guimaraes:
“We were concerned for him but he’s come back & the scan was good. He’s trained & he’s trained well. It’s slightly disrupted him because these two weeks were important for his match sharpness but he’s physically fine and in the squad for tomorrow.”
Howe on Alexander Isak:
“He picked up an injury training with Sweden but the scan doesn’t look too bad. We’re not overly concerned it’s a long injury. With any muscle injury there’s a period where you have to be careful. He’s out running on the grass and is looking good.”
Howe on Callum Wilson:
“Callum has trained. He’s trained for around ten days with us now & is in a good place. Every time he comes back from an injury he does the work and doesn’t cut corners. He’s put a lot of work in with the sports science team too so he’s looked good.
“It’s a huge boost for the players to have him in the group – the positive energy and laughter brings. With Alex Isak picking up his injury it was perfect timing. There’s no doubt Callum is a big player for us.”
Howe on Allan Saint-Maximin:
“He’s doing well. He’s had a period away and has come back. He’s close, very close. I’m being vague, but I’m being vague because there are a lot of situations that are unclear as well go into the game. Allan’s is one of them. I’ll know more after today.”
Howe on Chris Wood:
“Chris came off with a rib problem for New Zealand – he took a knock. He’s another player we’ll make a late decision on.”
