Big boost: Howe drops major Newcastle United news that’ll leave fans buzzing

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has revealed the latest information on the status of right-back Kieran Trippier after the right-back missed Saturday’s 1-1 draw with West Ham United after suffering an injury against Aston Villa last weekend.

What’s the latest?

Having been forced off after scoring the only goal in a 1-0 win over Aston Villa last weekend, Trippier was pictured post-match to be wearing a protective boot as well as being on crutches, a worrying sight for Newcastle supporters.

Kieran Trippier has arrived back at St James’ Park on crutches and a protected boot. #NUFC pic.twitter.com/sCD3eSwgd9

— Jordan Cronin (@jordancronin_) February 13, 2022

It was confirmed by Howe ahead of the trip to West Ham that the 31-year-old underwent successful surgery on his foot and will be able to play again this season.

The 44-year-old said: “The update is Kieran had his operation yesterday and that went well. So that was good news.

“I don’t know at this moment in time how long he will out for but we hope to have him back before the end of the season.

“Obviously, it is a significant injury which was a big blow to us because he was performing so well. We hope to see him before the end of the season but in terms of a definitive timeline we will have to wait and see. We’ll see how his early rehab goes.

“The operation was a success but it’s an opportunity for somebody else to step up into his place but certainly we will miss his leadership skills on the pitch. He scored two goals in the last two games which have been defining moments for us.

“We are confident we have enough quality in the squad to cover.”

Newcastle fans will be buzzing

With the English right-back already making a major impression following his move from Atletico Madrid last month, there would’ve certainly been fears of the worst amongst the Toon Army regarding Trippier’s fitness.

Although it’s a blow to have him unavailable for the coming weeks, it will certainly be a relief and optimism that the Englishman hasn’t been ruled out for the rest of the season and will still be able to contribute to the Tyneside outfit’s survival bid.

The Magpies are yet to lose in the league since the 31-year-old’s arrival, with the draw in east London extending their unbeaten run in the top-flight to six matches.

However, their position is still precarious, particularly after both Burnley and Watford secured victories on Saturday afternoon against Brighton and Aston Villa respectively.

Is Trippier a big miss for Newcastle?

Howe’s side are four points clear of the relegation zone in 17th with 19th place Burnley having two games in hand on the northeast club.

Next up is another trip to the capital as United take on 14th place Brentford in what proves to be a crucial match towards to the bottom of the Premier League.

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