Eddie Howe has shared good news and bad news ahead of Newcastle United’s clash with Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.
Newcastle are hoping to bounce back after getting battered at Villa Park, with Howe likely to make changes to his starting lineup against Spurs.
It was reported by the Athletic that Miguel Almiron could start this weekend, while we have tipped the 29-year-old to return to the starting XI in place of Jacob Murphy. Now the Toon boss has admitted that recalling the Paraguayan is a possibility.
Newcastle injury update – Almiron is in contention
Ahead of Sunday’s game, Howe has spoke to the media. He was asked about the chances of Almiron starting for the first time since March.
“He’s an option – I’d say he’s in contention,” Howe said.
“He’s had minimal training – he’s trained this week and trained well, as Miggy usually does. I was pleased to see him back on the pitch. But prior to that he had quite a long absence, so we’ll wait and see. I’ll try and make the right call for him and the team.”
Hopefully the right call is Almiron starting, as he is our top scorer and has been one of our best players this season. He has scored 11 times already, and found the net on his last appearance at St James’ Park – the winner in a 2-1 victory over Wolves.
The Paraguayan will be competing with Murphy and Anthony Gordon for a start, but one Newcastle winger has been ruled out.
Bad news on Allan Saint-Maximin
While Howe is pondering whether or not to start Almiron on Sunday, one player who definitely won’t feature is Allan Saint-Maximin.
It was reported that he had a chance of being fit for the game against Spurs, but that will not be the case. The Frenchman has been recovering in France, and Howe has confirmed that he is not expected back until next week.
“No, he’s not back in the country yet,” Howe said.
“We will see him early next week. But Maxi’s fine.”
The 26-year-old not being available is a real shame, as it is the kind of game he would thrive in. Maxi usually delivers in big home games, and that is exactly what Sunday is.
However, he will not be available, meaning Howe will need to look elsewhere for creative flair. He will be buoyed by the possibility of starting Almiron, who made a difference off the bench last week. He also has history against Spurs, scoring against them in the reverse fixture earlier this season.
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