Kieran Trippier facing late fitness test ahead of Newcastle United's clash with Aston Villa

Kieran Trippier faces a late fitness test ahead of Newcastle United's home clash against Aston Villa.

The England full-back went off with a calf injury in the latter stages of the 3-1 win over Everton and has undergone assessments since then.

But Eddie Howe is waiting until the last minute to decide if the January signing from Atletico Madrid plays in the Premier League meeting on Sunday.

Howe said: "We don't think it's a long term injury but we'll have to make a late call on him.

"He's been so important for us in recent games.

"I thought he was outstanding against Everton, highlighted by his free-kick.

"He’s been key in our uplift, I can’t speak highly enough of him.

"He was outstanding against Everton. It would be a big blow to lose him, but we'll see."

But Trippier is the only major doubt going into Sunday's game.

Howe added: "There's no fresh injury concerns.

"Fede Fernandez has made good progress but has not trained with the group.

"Matt Ritchie and Callum Wilson are still out."