Newcastle United will make another late decision on Callum Wilson and Joelinton’s health ahead of their Premier League trip to West Ham United on Sunday (kick-off 2pm).
Both players were absent from the thrilling midweek Champions League triumph over Paris Saint-Germain, which was secured by goals from Miguel Almiron, Dan Burn, Sean Longstaf, and Fabian Schar.
Wilson has been absent for the last three matches versus Manchester City, Burnley and PSG because of hamstring tightness, while Joelinton sat out of the latter after picking up a similar issue just four minutes after coming on as a substitute at home to the Clarets.
Asked about the injury situation, Howe said: “The injury list doesn’t look great but I don’t think, touch wood, apart from Harvey [Harvey Barnes] that there is anything long-term there but maybe some short-term pain for us. We’ll have and see how Callum [Wilson] & Joelinton are. They’re probably the closest.
“Anthony [Gordon] is suspended which is another blow for us. Sven [Botman] won’t make it.”
Wilson has scored 12 goals in 13 Premier League games against the Hammers but Howe may have no choice but to keep faith with club-record signing Alexander Isak.
Howe will be without in-form winger Anthony Gordon through suspension after he reached five yellow cards this season. Harvey Barnes and Joe Willock remain sidelined while Emil Krafth works his way back from an ACL injury.
In anticipation of the trip to the London Stadium, Howe has asked his players to refocus swiftly after Wednesday’s success against the French champions.
“The interaction we have with the players in the next couple of days is going to be really important to reset the mindset of what we want to do in this game,” explained Howe.
“You can never live in the past, and PSG is one.” You have the ability to influence the future and hence influence your next game and performance. Mentally, I’ve already gone on. Our players must do the task promptly and move on.”