Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe praises pivotal 34-year-old amid claims club will listen to offers for him

Eddie Howe faced the media ahead of an important game against Premier League leaders Liverpool on Wednesday night.

The Magpies are looking to bounce back from their disappointing 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace which saw them fail to register a shot on target - being helped by a coincidental Marc Guehi own goal before a Daniel Munoz header meant they left the capital with just one point.

Newcastle sit 11th in the table in dire need of a boost having gone two games without a win. Howe is confident his squad can bounce back against Liverpool who are nine points clear at the top of the table.

Reds boss Arne Slot confirmed that Ibrahima Konate and Kostas Tsimikas will both miss the trip to Tyneside meaning they have just five fit defenders.

Howe is also without defenders Jamaal Lascelles and Sven Botman but the former looks close to a return after being spotted in the gym in the latest round of training ground photos.

Image: Getty

Eddie Howe believes Kieran Trippier is still improving despite Newcastle United exit rumours

Kieran Trippier was the first signing under the new regime and has been one of the players who fans can credit for their success over the last three years.

At 34, the former England International has been in and out of the squad as he battles with fitness - being limited to six league appearances this season.

On Trippier, Howe said: "Tripps, in line with the other players on that right hand side, has created so much for us historically. I think if you go back to our Champions League season, that was probably our most dominant side of the pitch.

"A lot of goals came from that side, a lot of chances were created down that side and Kieran was pivotal to that. So we've certainly missed his attacking attributes, his range and what he brings.

"He's improving, I'd say, physically. I think he's been out and hasn't really played consistently now for quite a long time.

"So I think getting him back in that rhythm where he can feel 100% fit will take a little bit of time.

Newcastle United reportedly willing to listen to offers for Kieran Trippier

Amid the praise there is a feeling that Trippier could be moved on in the upcoming transfer window. Although his fitness is getting there and we anticipate an appearance against Liverpool on Wednesday there surely can't be much more he can give at this level.

Reports on Monday suggest that Newcastle are ready to cash in on Trippier to alleviate the £120k-a-week wage he carries with him.

Among those interested are AC Milan and Jose Mourinho managed Fenerbahce. A move away from England seems more likely with the wage he is on but with Trippier's contract not up for another year-and-a-half it's possible he could stay after the fact.