Eddie Howe Provides Updates on Player Fitness, Team Preparations, and Transfer Window

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe addressed reporters ahead of the Premier League fixture against West Ham United on Monday, scheduled for an 20:00 GMT kick-off. The following are the main points from his press conference: Howe stated that there “is a chance” Callum Wilson could participate in the upcoming match, pending his reaction during training sessions over the next few days. He further noted that Wilson’s recovery is at a “delicate stage,” emphasizing the need to “learn from previous issues and try to keep him on the pitch” to ensure that upon his return, he is “in a place to contribute.” Howe also confirmed that Kieran Trippier is “slightly closer” to returning to play compared to Wilson. However, Emil Krafth underwent an operation and is expected to be sidelined for “six to eight weeks.” The Monday night scheduling resulted in a “gap between games was longer than we would want,” but the team utilized the international break by taking a trip to Saudi Arabia, allowing them to “use the time wisely.” Regarding the memory of their 4-3 comeback victory in the corresponding fixture last season, Howe commented: “This is a totally different game with a different manager. They have improved over the summer with players. It will be challenging but we’re keen to keep momentum going from before the break.” Expressing his pride in observing Anthony Gordon, Tino Livramento, and Lewis Hall represent England, Howe stated: “We sat down with staff together and watched it. Enormous amount of pride watching them perform and at how well they performed. Great to see Anthony score his first goal, Tino win his first cap and Hall look so comfortable. Big moments for them in their careers and they will look back on them with pride.” Howe believes Alexander Isak is “right up there as one of best strikers playing in the world right now,” further remarking: “If he can continue on this path, he is going to prove himself as one of world’s best. I won’t put that pressure on him but that should be what he is trying to achieve.” When asked about discussions with Newcastle’s hierarchy regarding the January transfer window, Howe responded: “Loose discussions. We will sit down in a couple of weeks to firm up those ideas of where we can go and want to go. This will be a complex window for us. There is lots of decisions to make and we always need to comply with PSR.” In response to the Premier League’s APT vote on Friday, Howe stated that his “priorities” lie elsewhere and that he can only “make football decision based around the rules that are set.”