Callum Wilson is facing an extended spell on the sidelines for Newcastle United following a pectoral injury picked up against Nottingham Forest last weekend.
Wilson made his first start of 2024 at the City Ground as The Magpies claimed a 3-2 win. While the 31-year-old was able to complete the game, he ended it with his arm in a makeshift sling in his shirt.
"It was a really strange injury," Howe admitted. "He got in a tussle with the centre-back right at the end of the game, we were over the allotted time and initially, I thought he must have hurt his shoulder but it wasn't, it was a muscle in his pec.
"He had a scan and we hoped initially he could carry on. He felt good and functionally fine moving his arm at full strength but he went to see a specialist and I think it was apparent he needed it operated on and I think he's having that operation as we speak."
Wilson is facing between nine and 12 weeks on the sidelines following surgery. The injury leaves Newcastle without a fit first-team striker heading into Saturday's match against AFC Bournemouth at St James' Park (3pm kick-off) with Alexander Isak still nursing a groin injury.
The 24-year-old is a doubt for the weekend but Howe wouldn't completely rule out the striker.
"Probably not for the weekend," said The Magpies' boss. "He's very, very close and looking really good. I'm really pleased with the progress he's made so let's wait and see [if he plays]."
1. Matt Targett (hamstring)
Matt Targett has been on the sidelines after picking up a hamstring injury in the opening minutes of Newcastle’s 3-0 Carabao Cup win against Manchester United. The left-back had surgery on his hamstring in November and has since returned to full training. Expected return: Chelsea (A) - 11/03
2. Lewis Hall - ineligible
Lewis Hall is ineligible to feature against his parent club Chelsea on Monday. Expected return: Manchester City (A) - 16/03
3. Kieran Trippier (calf)
Trippier was forced off during the 3-0 win over Wolves on Saturday with a calf injury. Following a scan result, Trippier has been ruled out for a few weeks. Expected return: West Ham (H) - 30/03
4. Nick Pope (shoulder)
Nick Pope dislocated his shoulder against Manchester United in December and required surgery. Eddie Howe has said the goalkeeper is still a number of weeks away. Expected return: Everton (H) - 03/04