Newcastle United are without number one goalkeeper Nick Pope because of a knee issue. Howe revealed at Friday’s pre-match press conference that the 32-year-old had gone to visit a specialist.
Newcastle are hoping to end a run of four games without a victory against a Leicester City that are unbeaten in Ruud van Nistelrooy’s two matches in charge.
Howe said: “I can probably, honestly say after the Brentford game that I was very disappointed. All those emotions attached to that, sad, whatever you want to call it. We have standards to hit and demands to match, most importantly from ourselves, and we did not hit those levels.
“When you don’t deliver what you are disappointed and sad, whatever you want to call it. But it very quickly returns to what can we do, within seconds really. You can’t dwell on that moment, we have to find a positive way forward. So what is that going to be? What can we improve, what can we change and how can we affect the players.
“All those actions have taken place this week and hopefully we see that reflected in our performance against Leicester. Certainly, there are no negative emotions because you can’t hold them for any length of time.
“I’ve been in the game long enough to know they are always around the corner, disappointments are the easiest thing to suffer in football. The hardest thing is long term success and consistent results, you are always working towards that which is what we have done this week.”
With Nick Pope out, Howe has turned to Dubravka, just like he did last season.
1. GK: Martin Dubravka (in for Nick Pope)
With Nick Pope out, Howe has turned to Dubravka, just like he did last season. | Getty Images
Kieran Trippier is available again, leading to calls from some to play him ahead of Livramento, but a recent hamstring injury and then illness suggests he isn’t yet fully fit.
2. RB: Tino Livramento
Kieran Trippier is available again, leading to calls from some to play him ahead of Livramento, but a recent hamstring injury and then illness suggests he isn’t yet fully fit. | AFP via Getty Images
His performance at Brentford was Schar’s worst in a long time. But everyone has off-days and it’s worth remembering he’s been largely excellent under Eddie Howe’s management.
3. CB: Fabian Schar
His performance at Brentford was Schar’s worst in a long time. But everyone has off-days and it’s worth remembering he’s been largely excellent under Eddie Howe’s management. | Getty Images
The Blyth-born defender has been one of the Magpies’ most consistent performers this campaign.
4. CB: Dan Burn
The Blyth-born defender has been one of the Magpies’ most consistent performers this campaign. | Getty Images