Kieran Trippier withdrew from the England squad after featuring against Malta (Picture: Getty)
Newcastle United will be able to call upon the services of Kieran Trippier for Saturday’s Premier League match against Chelsea.
The Magpies’ right-back played the full 90 minutes of England’s Euro 2024 qualifier against Malta a week ago, but withdrew from the squad due to a ‘personal matter’ ahead of the 1-1 draw against North Macedonia.
Eddie Howe, however, confirmed the experienced defender would be available for selection, but was more evasive when asked for an update on striker Alexander Isak who has missed the last five games with a hamstring injury.
Speaking ahead of Saturday’s game, Howe said: ‘Fabian [Schär] was more precautionary rather than any injury, we saw him yesterday – he seemed good.
Alexander Isak has missed the last five Newcastle games with a hamstring injury (Picture: Getty)
‘Miggy [Miguel Almiron] has worked really well since his hamstring. Kieran [Trippier] is fine, he has trained with us since his return from England. We will check on Sean [Longstaff] before tomorrow.
On Isak, he added: ‘I don’t want to give too much away.’
Having started the season impressively, Newcastle’s ambitions took a double blow prior to the latest international break with defeats against Borussia Dortmund and Bournemouth representing significant setbacks.
A return to St James’ Park, however, which has been something of a fortress since Howe’s appointment two years ago, will prompt a revival, according to Newcastle’s manager.
‘Our home form has been very strong – we have had some good results against some top sides.
‘You look back at our last league game here against Arsenal, it was a very strong performance, full of discipline and quality. Another performance and atmosphere like that would be more than welcome. There is a determination to put the Bournemouth result to bed.’
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The problems have been stacking up for Eddie Howe.