Eddie Howe issues fitness update, Tonali and Willock likely to be fit, Miley ruled out for Sunderland visit | OneFootball

Eddie Howe says Sandro Tonali and Joe Willock are likely to be fully fit for Sunday's Tyne-Wear derby at St James' Park, but Lewis Miley will miss out. According to Sunderland Echo, the Newcastle United head coach delivered the update before the Champions League trip to Barcelona.

Miley sustained a dead leg that caused muscle damage and has been sidelined since late January. He had targeted the last-16 second leg on Wednesday for his return, but did not travel, and Newcastle are now looking to the other side of the international break for him.

Both Tonali and Willock have travelled and could be involved at Spotify Camp Nou. Willock, who picked up a knock, was withdrawn in the second half of the 1-0 win over Chelsea on Saturday.

Howe said Tonali would be assessed in training that day, his first back with the group, before any decision on Barcelona. He added that Willock would also be monitored in training, with hopes he comes through fine.

Looking ahead to a crucial week, Howe said Newcastle are as confident as they have been at any stage this season, described himself as the happiest he has felt, and hoped his side are peaking at the right time.

Source: Sunderland Echo