Eddie Howe says Newcastle United will not use their lengthy injury list as an excuse if they fall short of European qualification this season, as they prepare for Saturday’s huge clash with Tottenham.
Newcastle sit eighth in the Premier League table – two points adrift of sixth-placed Manchester United – with seven games to play in what has been a frustrating season for the Toon Army.
Sven Botman, Jamaal Lascelles, Lewis Miley, Callum Wilson, Joelinton, Nick Pope, Miguel Almiron, Tino Livramento and Kieran Trippier are all currently out injured, while Joe Willock and Lewis Hall are doubtful for Saturday’s visit of fourth-placed Spurs.
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Howe, however, still believes Newcastle have the quality at their disposal to finish the season strongly.
“I think you lose control of your destiny if you’re always looking for external factors when you aren’t performing at your best,” he said at Friday’s pre-match press conference.
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“I always believe, no matter the circumstances, you can still win games and you can still ask your players to perform.
“I’ve always been a firm believer in that. It’s still in our hands and I back the players we have available to play well.”
While Howe revealed Newcastle have received a “positive” update on the Achilles issue Willock sustained in last week’s 1-0 win over Fulham, the midfielder is unlikely to face Spurs.
Howe does not expect to have any of Newcastle’s long-term absentees back for their meeting with Ange Postecoglou’s men, but he hopes reinforcements are not too far away.
🎙️ Eddie Howe has been speaking to the media ahead of #NEWTOT tomorrow:
On Joe Willock:
“Joe has been to see another specialist to check on the progress of his achilles, which has been problematic for him. The feedback was positive. For Tottenham, I don’t think he will be… pic.twitter.com/ilRi3D0JBG
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) April 12, 2024
“The closest player to coming back would be Tino Livramento, he has not trained with the team but has been out on the grass,” Howe said when asked for a team news update.
“Lewis Hall has not trained at all this week, so he is a slight concern from last week.
“Other players are doing well in the background so I am hoping in the not-too-distant future we can get three or four back.”
