The Magpies head coach could have an even stronger squad available for Monday night's clash with Arne Slot's Reds
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe.
Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe.(Image: James Marsh/Shutterstock)
Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe could have a full squad available to him for Monday night's Premier League showdown with Liverpool at St James' Park.
Alexander Isak aside, the Magpies boss could welcome back midfielder Joe Willock to his squad after the former Arsenal star was pictured back in first-team training this week.
At this stage it's not clear whether Willock will be fit enough to rejoin the squad, but the indications are positive. Willock picked up a groin injury during pre-season, and while it was not as bad as was first feared, it was expected to keep him out until September.
His appearance in training offers hope that he will soon be available for selection, with the chances of a strong squad to face Arne Slot's side.
Isak remains unavailable, of course, but an improved offer worth £40m has been made to Brentford for Yoane Wissa.
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Even if a deal was agreed quickly, it's perhaps doubtful whether the Congo striker would be available to face Liverpool, with chances to train with the United squad before the game now running out.
Howe likes new signings to bed into the set-up before they are thrown into first-team action, so Monday could come to soon should any deals be struck in the coming days.
However Jacob Ramsey is expected to make the squad following his arrival from the Aston Villa. The attacking midfielder was confirmed as a Newcastle player on Sunday night and has spent the week training with his new team-mates.
Lewis Hall stepped up his match fitness with 90 minutes for Newcastle's Under-21 side against Southampton on Sunday, and could push for a starting place on Monday.
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He could slot into his usual left-back position with Tino Livramento and Kieran Trippier battling it out for the right-back role, should Howe decide to make changes.
Malick Thiaw and Sven Botman had to settle for a place on the bench in the season opener against Aston Villa, but the performance of Dan Burn and Fabian Schar in the heart of the defence means any change would come as something of a surprise.
Meanwhile, in Isak's continued absence - and without new recruits - Anthony Gordon is expected to lead the line, with suppot from Harvey Barnes and Anthony Elanga on the flanks.
It will be Elanga's first Premier League in United colours at St James' Park following his switch from Nottingham Forest last month.