Despite playing against some huge competition this season, particularly with our return to the Champions League, this weekend's game against Championship side Sunderland is our biggest game of the season. With that being said, Eddie Howe will be thankful to finally receive some positive Newcastle injury news ahead of the important fixture.
Newcastle injury news: Eddie Howe's best player could return against Sunderland
According to a positive update from the Northern Echo, Eddie Howe could now be anticipating for Kieran Trippier to return to fitness in time for this match. The English full-back missed the most recent match against Liverpool as he was carrying a knock, which leaves many to wonder whether he will start against Sunderland or not.
Although Trippier has a chance of being fit, I think it would be wise for Eddie Howe to leave him on the bench and if he is fit enough for a second-half cameo, then it only works in our favour. The likes of Tino Livramento, Dan Burn, Lewis Hall and Emil Krafth are all good enough to start at full-back in this match.
Indeed, in my predicted Newcastle lineup, I included Emil Krafth and Tino Livramento as my two full-backs of choice in this match. I think the two contrast each other well and would provide some more rest to Kieran Trippier, who seemed to be fatigued throughout December.
Some people, both in and our of the Newcastle fanbase, have turned against Kieran Trippier for his bad form. But it's important to remember that if we look at this season as a whole, Trippier is a contender for our player of the season as he's been our man of the match in most important matches this season. Therefore, I am excited to see Trippier return after his much-needed rest from the first team.
What do you make of today's Newcastle injury news?