Eddie Howe confirms he’s ‘really pleased’ after Newcastle United training ground boost

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Newcastle United are set for a big end to the season.

Indeed, Newcastle United have the small matter of a Carabao Cup final to contest but that’s not all that remains on the line for Eddie Howe.

The Newcastle manager, after all, could yet lead his side back into the Champions League, should they finish in the top four or five in the Premier League.

Currently sixth but with what now looks a winnable trip to Manchester City next on the horizon, optimism is high.

A deep run in the FA Cup also remains a possibility, though Howe will need his full squad available if he’s going to battle across a number of fronts.

Anthony Gordon is set to be fit for the City game, while Dan Burn could make the trip to the Etihad Stadium.

Sven Botman’s knee issue isn’t thought to be serious and it’s been promising to see all of Callum Wilson, Nick Pope and Joe Willock make their returns recently.

Speaking before the trip to City, Howe confirmed a boost in regard to Harvey Barnes.

• READ MORE: Who is Harvey Barnes? Profile, Girlfriend, Dad, Salary, Socials

Eddie Howe pleased as Newcastle United star makes injury progress

Barnes picked up a muscle injury during Newcastle’s FA Cup win over Bromley and hasn’t played since.

While the 27-year-old won’t be available for the City game on Saturday, Howe has confirmed he’s been pleased with what he’s seen from the forward in training of late and has suggested a return isn’t too far away now.

Though it’s tough to imagine the former Leicester man starting over Gordon any time soon, having more options available in the squad can hardly be a bad thing.

“I am really pleased with how he has looked, he is not far at all, another one that can soon be in contention,” confirmed the Newcastle boss.

Harvey Barnes stats make for good reading for Newcastle United

Barnes is said to be frustrated with his lack of first-team minutes this season, which is certainly understandable for a player of his calibre.

Sadly for him, however, Gordon is just too good to drop.

Still, that doesn’t mean Barnes isn’t having an impact. Five goals and one assist in six Premier League starts this season is not to be sniffed at, after all.

If Barnes can keep fit, there would appear to be little reason why he cannot play a big role in what’s to come.