Eddie Howe expects key Newcastle players to be back for Crystal Palace

EDDIE HOWE is hoping Sven Botman, Joelinton and Callum Wilson will all be fully-fit and available by the time Newcastle United return to action after the forthcoming international break.

The domestic calendar is on hold for the next fortnight, with international matches scheduled, meaning Newcastle do not have a game until they host Crystal Palace on October 21.

Botman and Joelinton both missed yesterday’s 2-2 draw with West Ham, with Callum Wilson only deemed to be fit enough to make a five-minute appearance from the bench.

All three should be available to face the Eagles though, with Anthony Gordon also due to return from suspension in a fortnight’s time.

“We’ve been missing some big players, and that makes the recent games even more positive for us,” said Howe, whose side have claimed five wins and two draws in their last seven matches in all competitions. “When you’re stretched, you need the depth of your squad, and I think we’ve shown that we have players have come in and been brilliant for us.

“I thought we missed Joelinton, and we’ve definitely missed Joe Willock for a long time. Sven, Anthony and Callum have all been out too, and these players can make a difference, especially in a tight game like the West Ham one where we’re 2-1 up but we’re fatigued. That’s something we need to look at – hopefully we can get those players back in the next two weeks.”

Joelinton was never in serious consideration for a place in yesterday’s squad at the London Stadium, while Wilson’s involvement was always going to be limited.

“Ultimately, he (Joelinton) wasn’t close,” said Howe. “He hasn’t trained with us yet. Hopefully, he’ll be back for the next game though.