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 (achilles)
Targett has been missing since picking up a hamstring injury against Man Utd back in November. He has featured on the bench in their last couple of outings before dropping out v West Ham and Everton in what is understood to be a minor setback in his recovery. Expected return: Tottenham Hotspur (H) - 13/04 | Getty Images
2. Kieran Trippier (calf)
Trippier was forced off during the 3-0 win over Wolves with a calf injury. He has since been ruled out for over a month. Set for another couple of weeks out at least. Expected return: Crystal Palace (A) - 24/04 | Getty Images
3. 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 and isn't expected back until 'late April'. Expected return: Sheffield United (H) - 27/04 | Getty Images
4. Tino Livramento (ankle)
Livramento picked up a twisted ankle injury at Chelsea which ruled him out for the Manchester City trip. He returned against West Ham United before suffering another ankle injury which will keep him out for another couple of weeks. Expected return: Burnley (A) - 04/05 | Getty Images