Injury update: Eddie Howe kept his cards close to his chest on when asked for update on player fitness

Eddie Howe faced the media on Friday morning ahead of the massive game against Chelsea on Sunday at St James' Park.

Chelsea come to Newcastle after comprehensively beating the champions last week, which will give them a big confidence boost, as well as securing their place in the Europa Conference League final last night.

As is often the case when Howe talks to the media on a Friday morning, the question of injuries follows the pleasantries, and Newcastle do have a few players under the watchful eye of the Newcastle United medical staff.

However, rather than give anything away, Eddie Howe was very coy when asked for an update.

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Eddie Howe was giving very little away when it comes to player fitness

Initially, Howe was asked how everyone was after the draw against Brighton, with the gaffer giving a very unrevealing answer.

"We've got a couple of players we're looking at and assessing - and we'll see how they are from the weekend. But apart from that, we're OK, we trained well this week, I've been pleased with the group, very focused on Sunday."

Then, when Keith Downie pushed him for names, Howe wasn't playing the game at all.

"Let's keep that under wraps."

Could Joelinton make a miraculous comeback?

It does suggest that there's a plan afoot from Eddie Howe and the less he gives away, the bigger the surprise it will be on Sunday.

We doubt, however, that it will be Joelinton who steps out onto the pitch after seeing a specialist for his knee problem, with Howe providing an update on the Brazilian.

"I saw Joe yesterday for the first time in a while as he'd been away and he'd returned to Brazil briefly, but he's been back in Barcelona for another injection.

"I think he's feeling pretty good. Whether we stand before the end of the season or not, I'm not sure."