Newcastle United will make a late fitness call on Kieran Trippier ahead of Saturday's Tyne-Wear derby against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light (12:45pm kick-off).
Trippier missed Monday's 4-2 defeat at Liverpool due to a groin injury picked up in the Boxing Day defeat against Nottingham Forest and is a doubt for the match on Saturday. Callum Wilson is also set to miss the FA Cup third-round match with a calf issue along with several others.
Ahead of the match, Howe was asked about Trippier's chances of featuring against The Black Cats.
"With Kieran, we're going to give him a late test today and see how he is tomorrow," he said. "[Wilson is] not too bad but it'll be enough to keep him out of this game and our next game but hopefully he'll be back for Aston Villa.
"It's been a good week for us, since the Liverpool game the lads have trained well. We know the importance of the fixture and what it means to everybody so we're ready and hopefully we can give the best account of ourselves."
Subject to Trippier's late fitness test, Newcastle are unlikely to welcome any other players back from injury this weekend with nine players currently ruled out. But Howe is hoping his side will be back at 'full pelt' this weekend.
"Hopefully we can say we're at full pelt for the weekend," Howe added. "That's how we have to look, there are no excuses." The match will be the first Tyne-Wear derby since 2016 as Newcastle look to pick up their first win against Sunderland since 2011.
Here is Newcastle United's current injury list and expected return dates heading into Saturday's match...
5. Callum Wilson (chest)
Wilson managed to complete 90 minutes at Nottingham Forest but ended the match with his arm in a makeshift sling. It has since been revealed the striker suffered a pectoral injury in his chest. Has undergone surgery and is back out on the grass. Expected return: Burnley (A) - 04/05 | Getty Images
6. Miguel Almiron (knee)
Forced off just 10 minutes after coming on against West Ham with a knee issue which will keep him sidelined for around a month. Expected return: Burnley (A) - 04/05 | Getty Images
7. Joelinton (thigh)
Joelinton picked up a thigh injury during Newcastle's 3-0 win over Sunderland. He was able to briefly play on before being withdrawn. Eddie Howe has ruled the Brazilian out for at least six weeks but surgery on the injury is likely to keep the midfielder out until the end of the season. Expected return date: Brighton (H) - 11/05 | Getty Images
8. Lewis Miley (back)
Lewis Miley injured his back on international duty. There were fears his season could be over, but he may still be able to play a part of the remainder of the campaign. Expected return: May 2024 Photo: Stu Forster/Getty Images