Eddie Howe has spoken with the media this morning, providing an update on injuries and contract situations ahead of Monday’s trip to Chelsea.
He has acknowledged that Kieran Trippier’s calf injury is’minor’, but it will ‘definitely’ keep him out of our next two FA Cup games against Chelsea and Manchester City, with Howe hoping he will return for West Ham later this month.
Howe said that Nick Pope is progressing well but will likely return next month, as the team is hesitant to rush a goalie back after shoulder surgery.
Matt Targett has returned to training and could make the bench at Stamford Bridge, with Trippier sidelined and Lewis Hall ineligible midway through his loan deal.
Joelinton is’really pushing’ to return swiftly from thigh surgery, and the club is’still attempting’ to work out his contract issue, with Howe ‘desperate’ to keep the Brazilian on Tyneside.
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Howe on Trippier: “Kieran’s injury is not serious, just a minor one. The scans revealed enough to rule him out for the next two games, and we hope he can return for the first game following the international break, though that is not assured.
“There is every chance he will travel to both games; he is eager to be with the club despite his injuries. It demonstrates his leadership abilities.”
Howe on Joelinton: “He really wants to be there for his teammates.” I detect a little melancholy in him, but also drive. I know he’s determined to return as soon as possible, but in a safe manner.”
“We’re still attempting from the club side to reach an agreement on a new contract. Desperate to keep him. We are aware of his qualities, but there has been no substantial upgrade.”
