Eddie Howe sweating on fitness of midfield pair for Newcastle United's Everton test

Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe says he is is sweating on the availability of Joelinton and Jonjo Shelvey ahead of the crunch trip to Everton, but that Joe Willock should be back at Goodison Park. Both Shelvey and Willock missed the 1-0 loss at Chelsea due to illness while Joelinton has missed the clash at Stamford Bridge and the win at Southampton after a groin problem.

Howe, speaking at a packed Press conference, said: "Willock, yes he should be OK, he had an illness but returned to training yesterday. Jonjo Shelvey we are waiting to see, he hasn't trained yet he's a slightly bigger concern. Joelinton is going to be touch and go.

"We have a decision to make on whether we look after him with the break we have afterwards or whether we push him back out there. We will have to make our mind up."

Howe indicated there are no fresh injury problems though and is also hoping to see Fede Fernandez back after the international break.

Howe said: "Apart from that (Shelvey and Joelinton) we are Ok. Fede Fernandez will hopefully train today after he has had quite a lay off."