Newcastle United is set to receive a double fitness boost after the international break with two key players expected to return in October. Head coach Eddie Howe has confirmed that Callum Wilson and Lewis Miley will be back in contention for a critical month of fixtures,.
Eddie Howe said “I think that’s pretty much where we are with those guys.”
In October, Newcastle will face a series of challenging matches, starting with Brighton at home, Chelsea away, and potentially Chelsea again in the Carabao Cup fourth round if they are successful against Wimbledon, who are currently at the bottom of the league.
However, the club is still facing fitness issues with other players. Howe mentioned that Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles are “a little bit further back” in their recovery. He expressed cautious optimism.
Eddie Howe said “Hopefully, some good news is on the horizon (with Lascelles and Botman), but until they’re back fully, it’s difficult to promise that.”
Howe has also addressed the impact of missing strikers Callum Wilson and Alexander Isak, particularly highlighting this issue after the 1-1 draw against Manchester City.
Eddie Howe said “Yeah, I think it’s been a dynamic that we have certainly missed, and I think the players have missed themselves. Almost last year, they were dovetailing, one was fit, one was missing out, and we never sort of got the strength of having both available.”
Reflecting on past performances, Howe recalled the Burnley game towards the end of last season.
Eddie Howe said “The Burnley game sticks in my head towards the back end of last season. We had them both and used them both, and they were excellent together.” He emphasized the importance of having both players available, concluding, “But it’s a dynamic that we need, and I think the players need.”
