Newcastle boss Eddie Howe gives injury updates on midfield duo Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton | OneFootball

Eddie Howe says he will make a late decision as to whether Bruno Guimaraes can play against Liverpool on Saturday.

The Brazilian midfielder was an unused substitute in Newcastle’s draw with PSG on Wednesday having missed the defeat to Aston Villa last weekend with an ankle injury.

“Slightly unknown at the moment,” Howe said on whether Guimaraes could return to the line-up.

“He did really well to be with us in Paris and I think that’s more down to the fact that he was desperate to be there and support the players.

“We did very, very light training, he participated in that but it was next to nothing to be honest.

“He trained with us yesterday but that was more of a test so let’s see how he is today. This will be the day that we really decide.”

Howe is also optimistic that Joelinton will not be sidelined for too long with a groin problem.

“He flew on to Barcelona after the game (against PSG) to get an injection into his groin.

“Good news with Joe. The specialist feels he only needs one injection  and that means that his return could be quite quick, so we’re looking at weeks not months.

“Slightly unsure as to the exact date yet but positive news.”

Jacob Murphy and Will Osula are closing in on returns, meanwhile.

“He’s getting there,” Howe said on Murphy. “He’s made some good progress in the last few days so yesterday was his first full training session.

“Again, another player that was there with us (at PSG), I was slightly reluctant to use him. I wanted to give him a little bit more time.

“We’re in that delicate position where we’ve welcomed a few players back but we’ve got to make sure that they’re fully fit before we re-introduce them to the pitch.

“Will Osula will be in the same boat. He’s not really trained and we’ve got to make sure he’s right when we use him.”