Joelinton injury update, Howe on confidence and Ipswich clash

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe says his team have had confidence issues during a poor spell but he has backed them to continue winning against Ipswich.

Howe’s side beat Leicester 4-0 last weekend and followed up with a 3-1 win over Brentford in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals in midweek.

Before that, the Magpies had gone four games without a win, but Howe is set to see more points (and goals) over the Christmas period.

He said: “We are human beings and I think there have been (sometimes a little bit in certain games) trust issues.

“But I think we have seen very good feelings within the team in the last two performances. I’d probably say three of the last four have been really strong, as strong as we’ve seen this season.

“Hopefully it’s a good sign. I think we are scoring goals again, which generates a lot of confidence.

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—Newcastle United (@NUFC) December 20, 2024

“Three goals again the other night and we could have possibly scored more goals from different areas of the pitch, which is something we haven’t had this season, actually.

“Historically we have always had that, goals from everywhere. I think it’s a very important aspect and it was great to see Sandro (Tonali) score two huge goals for us.

“I think if you believe you can score goals from various sources, areas of the team, that naturally improves how you feel about yourself.”

team news

Callum Wilson is again out long-term as the striker battles injury, while midfielder Joelinton is out for the Ipswich game.

Howe said: “Joelinton is fine, he’s just a little bumped and bruised, he had a few stitches yesterday I think, around the ear area which was quite delicate.

“He had a cut on his mouth so I think him not being available this weekend is probably a good thing for him because it allows him to rest those bruises and injuries and then hopefully be fit for next week.” .

Howe in Ipswich: “We know Portman Road and Ipswich is a tough game, they are a really competitive team.

“I think Kieran (McKenna) has done an incredible job there and even in the games he has lost this season, he has been in all those games, very close games, a very competitive team as I said.

“So we’re going to have to be very alert to be ready for the game.”