‘Certainly’: Eddie Howe has some good news for Newcastle fans

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Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has confirmed that Magpies defender Javier Manquillo is “certainly” getting closer to 100 percent fitness.

The 27-year-old Newcastle ace missed last weekend’s 1-1 draw at West Ham after picking up an ankle problem in the win over Aston Villa.

There were initial fears that Manquillo had suffered ligament damage against the Villans.

However, Manquillo took part in training for Newcastle this week ahead of Saturday’s Premier League meeting with Brentford.

And speaking ahead of the match, Howe was able to give Newcastle fans some good news on the right-back’s fitness.

“Manquillo came through a couple of training sessions this week,” the Magpies media team quoted him as saying.

“I wouldn’t say he’s 100 per cent fit but he’s certainly getting closer to being fit and available.”

With Kieran Trippier expected to be out for the next eight to 10 weeks, Manquillo is set to rival Emil Krafth for the right-back spot.

Meanwhile, Allan Saint-Maximin remains a doubt for the Bees game.

“We’re going to make a late call on him,” said Howe. “He’s been away getting intensive treatment.

“We said when he suffered the injury, it wouldn’t be long-term so we’re keeping our fingers crossed on him.”

Newcastle, unbeaten in six games, would climb above 14th-placed Brentford with a win.