Newcastle United are boosted by the return of Alexander Isak and Kieran Trippier against Everton.
The Magpies host Everton at St James’ Park knowing a win will guarantee Champions League qualification for the second time in three seasons.
And United have been boosted by the return of top scorer Alexander Isak and full-back Kieran Trippier after the pair were spotted arriving at St James’ Park ahead of kick-off at 4pm.
Newcastle United given major Alexander Isak boost
Isak travelled with his teammates ahead of the game against Arsenal last weekend but was left out of the squad after being sent for a scan due to complaints over his groin.
As of Friday morning, the Swede hadn’t trained with his teammates, instead being restricted to individual training. But he resumed full training on Saturday and come through the session unscathed.
“He is doing okay,” said Howe on Friday. “He hasn't trained with us yet but he's made good progress through the week. The next couple of days will be absolutely crucial to his availability on Sunday.
“There's a chance. It's difficult to give any more than that really. Until he trains with us, we won't fully know how he's going to respond to the training and the demands that the game will place upon him.
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“We'll only play him if he's fit to contribute. But at the moment he has an opportunity potentially.
“Obviously this week he's been training just individually and building up his load. So he's been running and feels okay at the moment. But of course running is one thing and kicking a ball and doing all the other things that you need to do is another.
“So far what he's been asked to do, he's done it pain-free and he's done it well. The next two days will be absolutely crucial.”
Newcastle United welcome back Kieran Trippier
Trippier was a doubt heading into the game after missing the last two matches against Chelsea and Arsenal with a calf issue.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday, Howe said: “He's a player again, probably in a similar situation to Alex. He hasn't trained with us yet and he's had an absence of maybe two, two and a half weeks.
“But he has a chance maybe in the next couple of days to build up his load and maybe we'll see him train tomorrow. Let's wait and see.”
Isak is set to lead the line against the Toffees while Trippier is likely to be on the bench.
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