Big boost: Howe drops major Newcastle United news that'll leave fans buzzing - opinion

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has revealed the latest information on the status of right-back Kieran Trippier after the right-back missed Saturday’s 1-1 draw with West Ham United after suffering an injury against Aston Villa last weekend.

Having been forced off after scoring the only goal in a 1-0 win over Aston Villa last weekend, Trippier was pictured post-match to be wearing a protective boot as well as being on crutches, a worrying sight for Newcastle supporters.

Kieran Trippier has arrived back at St James’ Park on crutches and a protected boot. #NUFC pic.twitter.com/sCD3eSwgd9

— Jordan Cronin (@jordancronin_) February 13, 2022

It was confirmed by Howe ahead of the trip to West Ham that the 31-year-old underwent successful surgery on his foot and will be able to play again this season.

The 44-year-old said: “The update is Kieran had his operation yesterday and that went well. So that was good news.

“I don’t know at this moment in time how long he will out for but we hope to have him back before the end of the season.

“Obviously, it is a significant injury which was a big blow to us because he was performing so well. We hope to see him before the end of the season but in terms of a definitive timeline we will have to wait and see. We’ll see how his early rehab goes.

“The operation was a success but it’s an opportunity for somebody else to step up into his place but certainly we will miss his leadership skills on the pitch. He scored two goals in the last two games which have been defining moments for us.

“We are confident we have enough quality in the squad to cover.”

With the English right-back already making a major impression following his move from Atletico Madrid last month, there would’ve certainly been