Newcastle United injury round-up as Eddie Howe gives positive Kieran Trippier update

Eddie Howe had plenty of positive injury news to share as he provided an update on six key first-team players. Kieran Trippier, Allan Saint-Maximin and Jonjo Shelvey were all absent from the starting line-up against Everton whereas Martin Dubravka and Fabian Schar returned early from international duty.

However, there were concerns over whether Callum Wilson will make a return before the end of the campaign. The Magpies’ number nine - who has not featured since December - hinted at a swift comeback on a recent podcast episode but Howe has doubts over that possibility.

The Toon boss also revealed there has been a Covid outbreak in the camp. Here is everything the Howe said regarding absences ahead of the trip to North London.

The big news Howe revealed was that Kieran Trippier could return sooner than expected. It was feared the England right-back may miss the rest of the season with a broken metatarsal but he is making a strong recovery.

Howe said: "Kieran has a scan on his foot today to see how that's healed. Hopefully, the scan goes well and then we can push him quite quickly to get him back, so we're hoping for good news."

Saint-Maximin has not started since the 1-0 win against Aston Villa last month but made several substitute cameos before the international break. Howe confirmed the Frenchman is back in action and could be in line to start against Spurs.

"Whenever a player has time away with illness and injury it's very difficult to get them back up to speed straight away so this break has been very good for him,” he said. “He's trained very well and we're excited to see him back."

Shelvey missed the two defeats to Chelsea and Everton through illness but he should be fine after travelling with the squad to Dubai.