Eddie Howe is happy with Miguel Almiron’s progress as he recovers from injury, but does not expect to see the Newcastle winger for another four weeks.
Almiron missed Newcastle‘s last game due to a thigh injury, but provided fans with some encouragement during the international break.
The Paraguayan was active on social media, posting clips of him working in the gym and running at the Newcastle training ground.
That looked hugely encouraging, as Howe had previously stated that he would miss six weeks of action.
The Toon boss has now provided an update on Miggy’s fitness. While he is going in the right direction, there is still a long way to go before the 29-year-old is fit to play again.
Eddie Howe provides injury update on Miguel Almiron
Howe has spoke to the media ahead of Sunday’s game against Manchester United, and was asked if Almiron could potentially return sooner than anticipated.
“I don’t see that changing,” he said.
“I’d love it to. I’d love him to beat the timescale given, but I just don’t see it currently.
“He’s making really good progress. I think he’s pain-free. I don’t think there’s any long-term issues. I think it’s just a case of that’s the time it will take for the muscle to fully heal.
“So I think we’re four weeks off (a comeback), maybe slightly less. But yeah, he’s making really good progress.”
Chance for other Newcastle players to step up
While it is a shame that Almiron is unlikely to return earlier than anticipated, it does create an opportunity for someone else.
Miggy has been a consistent starter for the Magpies, and is our top scorer with 11 goals. That right wing position is very important to the way we play, and now another player has a chance to make it their own. But who will step up?
Jacob Murphy has started the past two games there and done well, but will need to find more consistency if he is to ensure we don’t suffer too much from Almiron’s absence.
The main candidate has to be Anthony Gordon. He is yet to get a run in the team since arriving in January, but will see Almiron’s injury as the chance to force his way into the side. However, the 22-year-old will first need to get over his own fitness problems.
An alternative option could see Allan Saint-Maximin play on the right, leaving the left flank vacant for either Joelinton or Elliot Anderson. That is what we anticipate could happen against Man United, with Joelinton likely to start.
Howe has plenty of options, meaning there is no need to rush Almiron back from injury. The Toon boss is delighted with his progress already, and hopefully we see him in four weeks time, fit and ready to add to his already impressive goal tally.
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