National World Top Stories Update Wednesday 5 November, 2025
One of Eddie Howe’s top players faces a race to be fit in the final few hours before their next Champions League game.
Speaking ahead of the game, Howe made it clear that he won’t be taking any chances on player fitness, explaining that he needs everyone available for the upcoming fixture run.
He said: “It’s a really important game for us because we know what we have ahead in the Champions League. But that’s not to say that this game is going to be easy either.
“We are back at home, we love playing here as we say many times, but Athletic Club will provide stiff opposition. They’re a very good defensive team – their defensive numbers are very, very strong. Off the ball, they’ve delivered this year some really strong performances in particular.
“From that side, our attacking game is going to have to be at its very best, and of course Champions League nights here are always very special.”
Elsewhere in the squad, defender Tino Livramento has been ruled out with a knee injury, and striker Yoane Wissa is also still battling a similar injury. Both are expected to be fit by the end of the month.
The Magpies have had a rollercoaster season thus far, languishing in 13th in the Premier League and currently 11th in the Champions League - although a win tonight would propel them up to the top eight.
Defender Dan Burn has admitted that, given the team’s current form, they might need to “be a bit more ugly” to try and get results.
He said: “It comes down to mentality. The manager will look at that and I’m sure he will come up with a plan on what we can do better and how we can win games.
“Probably be a bit more ugly with stuff. We were well known a few years ago for - I won’t say the word, but something-housery.
“If you go away from home, sometimes it’s important not to get beaten as well, pick up points and keep yourself ticking along. As long as you’re winning your home games and not getting beaten away, it’s better. But we have not done that well enough.”
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