Eddie Howe has issued an update on injuries, incomings, outgoings, Bruno Guimaraes and Lewis Hall ahead of Sunday’s clash with Liverpool.
He’s revealed that Joelinton is “fine” despite limping off at Man City, adding that Joe Willock is also making “good progress” and looking “the strongest he’s looked” as he steps up his comeback from a hamstring injury.
Howe confirms that Ryan Fraser looks set to join Southampton on loan but reaffirms his stance on incomings, saying “we won’t be adding to the squad” unless there’s injuries over the next week.
The 45-year-old also discusses Sunday’s clash with Liverpool, our rivalry and determination to put right the two defeats from last season, also touching on Bruno Guimaraes’ Twitter rant and the reasons he’s signed Lewis Hall. Read his quotes on all of the above below:
Eddie Howe on Joelinton and Joe Willock’s fitness:
“Joelinton is fine. We didn’t see him in the early part of the week but he trained in the latter part so fingers crossed he’s OK.
“He (Joe Willock) making good progress. This is probably the strongest he’s looked in terms of his hamstring. He had it re-scanned a couple of days ago and the report back was very good, no problems.”
“I think he had a bit of fatigue in his hamstring but he’s done really well. He’ll be training with us around his the international break and he’s a massive player.”
Eddie Howe on incomings and outgoings:
“There may be something with Ryan happening regarding Southampton. Apart from that, that’s all I know.”
“It’s still the case at the moment (That we won’t be signing anyone else). Unless something happens to a couple of players in one position before the window shuts, we won’t be adding to the squad.”
Eddie Howe on Liverpool:
“Last year we were disappointed with two defeats. The one at Anfield was a difficult night and the home game was painful in a different way. They’re very, very good at what they’ve been historically good at for four or five years, but they are building a new team with slightly different characteristics in midfield. We know this is another really good test for us, following on from Man City and Aston Villa.
“The rivalry between Newcastle and Liverpool has always been there historically, I don’t think it’s ramped up particularly any more than it’s always been. Historically, it’s been a game where everyone would say ‘I want to watch that’. There will be moments and flashpoints because it’s two iconic clubs going against each other.”
Eddie Howe on Lewis Hall:
“He played against us a couple of times last year and he impressed me for someone so young to come into those situations and perform the way he did. He caught my eye immediately. I really liked his attitude, his physical and technical attributes so I think he’s going to be a good signing for us.
“He has only recently converted to left-back, he has also played as number 8 and number 6. Wing-back, midfield and centre-back for England. Real versatility and that was one of the attractions for us, going into a season where we’ll need as many players as we can to play different positions.“
Eddie Howe on Bruno Guimaraes’ Twitter post:
“It’s important we don’t overly react emotionally to certain things. Bruno is a very emotional person and you’ve seen on the pitch that emotion is so positive for us. He’s used it brilliantly for us to build a feeling with the supporters. Maybe it’s a little lesson for him.“
