Newcastle: Wilson and Trippier’s revival to be put on hold

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has thrown doubt on England international defender Kieran Trippier’s speedy return.

The January signing was expected to be fit for Liverpool’s quadruple-chasing visit to St James’ Park next week.

Howe, on the other hand, has disclosed that the former Atletico Madrid player is unlikely to play due to his recovery from a fractured foot.

“Not sure as we speak,” Howe answered when asked about Trippier. Off the top of my head, I’d probably say no, but we’ll see.”

Trippier has not played for United since the 1-0 win over Aston Villa at Old Trafford on February 13.

It’s unclear whether Callum Wilson, the Reds’ top scorer, will be fit for Saturday’s trip to Tyneside.

Wilson has been out since fracturing his calf in a 1-1 draw with Manchester United at Old Trafford on Dec. 28.

Despite a Joelinton and Bruno Guimaraes-inspired win at Carrow Road on Saturday, Howe remains steadfast in his refusal to declare the Magpies secure in their bid to stay in the Premier League.

If Burnley loses to Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday and Newcastle beats second-placed Liverpool in the Premier League’s early kick-off the following weekend, the Magpies might be mathematically safe.

“Are we mathematically safe?” Howe said. When asked about United’s top-flight status, Howe smiled and responded, “Then no.”

“When you think back to some of the early days, you can see how difficult it was. The Cambridge setback, as well as Watford’s late equalizer, were terrible times for us, and we were a long way from where we are now.”

“The players, staff, and supporters have put forth a tremendous amount of effort to get us to this point.”

“I can’t express my gratitude to everyone enough for everything they’ve done for me and the team.”

Howe made four changes to his Norwich squad after playing three games in less than a week.

Despite this, Howe believes that the players who were given chances demonstrated that this squad is more than capable of contending in the Premier League even without summer arrivals.

“Three games in six days.”

“We couldn’t come here lazy, jaded, or emotionally exhausted after the week we had – two tough home games with extended periods without the ball — because Norwich had a free week.”

“We needed fresh bodies, and one or two of our players had niggles, so we didn’t want to risk them,” the head coach explained.

“I was quite happy with the men that arrived. I think they rejuvenated the squad, and we looked really good physically at times during the game,” Howe remarked.

“I also think it’s good for the group to do that because it shows we have a quality team and that I have options to pick from, as well as competition for positions, which is crucial.”

“The fact that we came here after a rough week and performed was a boost for us,” he continued.

“From a physical standpoint, it would have been very easy for us to reduce our levels today, but full credit to the players; they got another win, and I’m thrilled with them.”