It is getting closer for newcastle to welcome a 26 year old star ‘Eddie Howe say’

Newcastle have been so unlucky with injuries so far this season and while there have been a few names returning recently, there’s still a number of key players who are yet to return.

Looking ahead to the game against Aston Villa, Howe claimed in his press conference that Harvey Barnes is now the ‘closest’ player to returning after four months out.

Howe says key Newcastle figure is edging closer to return

The £39m summer signing has hardly featured for Newcastle this season, leaving Anthony Gordon to hold down the left wing position for most of the campaign.

Barnes injured his foot against Sheffield United in the 8-0 victory in what was a freak incident and despite Howe claiming he has been close to a return before, he’s suffered set backs which has now kept him out for four months.

Having the winger back into the rotation will be huge for Newcastle and Howe who is desperate for more quality in depth particularly up front, but it’s also important to allow Gordon to rest.

Barnes’ goal and assists record in the Premier League is up there with some of the best, very similar to Jarrod Bowen who many believe should be snapped up by a top club.

In the press conference, Howe said: “Harvey is getting closer. He’s probably the closest, along with Callum.”

Newcastle injury problems starting to resolve

It’s been a very long season for Newcastle in terms of unwanted absences with Joe Willock, Harvey Barnes, Jacob Murphy, Nick Pope and Joelinton all suffering long-term injuries.

That’s also combined with the little knocks the likes of Callum Wilson and Alexander Isak have had to deal with leaving Newcastle’s attack very short in numbers.

Getting these key players back in the next few weeks will be crucial in Newcastle’s push for European football, though Champions League qualification does now look out of reach.

There’s still so much for Howe and his Newcastle side to compete for especially with an FA Cup fifth round coming up, so getting Barnes back could be the start of a huge turnaround in 2024.