The Chronicle (South Tyneside and Durham)
United winger edging closer to return with chance for Hatters
NEWCASTLE United star Harvey Barnes is edging closer to a return from injury and is in with a chance of making the matchday squad for the visit of Luton Town.
The former Leicester City man, who joined Newcastle in a £35m summer deal, hasn’t been seen since limping off in the early stages of an 8-0 win over Sheffield United back in September with a foot injury.
Barnes has been back in individual training of late and will be looking to take part in some group sessions before this weekend’s Premier League’s tie.
When asked if he would have any players back for Saturday’s clash with Luton, Howe said: “There are players close. They’re getting there. Harvey Barnes would probably be the closest.
“I think Callum [Wilson] has been doing well, but we haven’t seen him in training yet. The others are a bit behind them.”
Callum
Wilson’s continued absence isn’t ideal after Alexander Isak limped out of Tuesday’s 3-1 win at Aston Villa with a groin issue.
Anthony Gordon filled in as Newcastle’s out and out striker for the remainder of the game but is more accustomed to playing out wide, leaving Howe with a lack of options just hours before the January window closes.
It’s too soon to say how long Isak will be sidelined as Newcastle’s medical team conduct tests before the weekend.
Howe, however, is hopeful his star man won’t be absent for too long.
“I’d like to say that way my decision but that was Alex’s decision,” the Newcastle boss added when asked about Isak.
“He said he had to come off, so we’re hopeful it’s not a serious injury.
“It doesn’t look too bad but it’s very early to say that, we need a proper diagnosis and then assess where we are.”
The transfer window slams shut this evening but the Magpies are expected to keep their powder dry despite outside calls for added reinforcements before the end of the month.