Newcastle United will face Crystal Palace in the Premier League on Saturday (21 October) after the international break, and Eddie Howe has shared some positive injury news ahead of the game.
The Magpies boss is happy to welcome striker Joelinton who has trained well during the break. The Brazilian striker hasn’t played since Newcastle’s 2-0 win against Burnley but he is now looking good in training.
Howe has hailed the Brazilian as a “huge player” for the club and expects him to return to his best form. Joelinton managed eight goals and three assists in all competitions last season. He is yet to open his scoring account so far, but Howe is pinning hopes on him.
“We hope Joelinton will be back this weekend. He’s trained well and looked good. he’s done a lot of work so I’m confident as I sit here now that he’s going to be OK and hopefully he’ll return to the form we know he can produce. A huge player for us,” said Howe, as quoted by BBC Sport.
Other injury updates
Joe Willock is close to returning to full fitness. The former Arsenal midfielder has been out since last season with a hamstring issue, but it seems he is now ready to feature.
Howe says that Willock has trained with the first team this week, but he wants to use him sensibly. The Magpies boss has made it clear that the fixture may have come too soon for Willock.
Alexander Isak is also doubtful. He has not trained with the squad and the Magpies will make a late decision on him whether he can play any part against Palace.
Sven Botman is also out injured at the moment. Howe has suggested that the defender is improving and will need another two weeks or more to return to action.
Newcastle have made a slow start to the season, and are 8th in the table with 13 points on board. Palace are just behind them with 12 points in 9th position.
