Newcastle vs Spurs: Eddie Howe provides squad update ahead of Premier League clash

Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has provided an update on several players ahead of the Magpies important Premier League clash against Tottenham Hotspur at St. James' Park.

The Magpies have had a difficult season as they have struggled with a series of injuries coupled up with a more congested schedule this season with the club playing in the Champions League and having good runs in the domestic competitions.

In the presser, Howe was asked about the progress of Lewis Hall, Tino Livramento and Joe Willock.

He admitted that Hall is a "doubt" after struggling with a quad problem which has kept him out of training all week.

Willock, who has missed a large portion of the season through injury was dealt another blow following the 1-0 win at Fulham last week. But his achilles problem is not thought to be serious.

Livramento is thought to be the closest to returning to the squad, but is yet to train following an ankle injury sustained against West Ham.

Willock not as bad as first feared

On Willock, Howe said: "Joe has been to see another specialist to check on the progress of his Achilles which has been problematic for him. It's been a difficult injury as there has been a few complications.

"The feedback was positive generally in respect that it is healing. But it will fluctuate from time to time. There will be moments it won't feel so good.

"For Tottenham, I probably think he won't be available. There's a chance he will be available for the rest of the season but that is unclear. We need to make sure the long term prognosis is positive and that might mean a short period of rest"

On Hall: "(He has) tightness in his quad. No muscle pull directly but enough to see him miss training this week.

"He's a doubt for the game."

On Livramento: "The closest player to coming back would be Tino, he has not trained with the team but has been out on the grass."

Injuries cannot define Newcastle's season

Howe's honest assessment of the season shows that he is aware that there were times when he could have done better in his decision making and game management.

These lessons will surely be positive for Newcastle going forward.

On injuries defining the season, Howe said: "I think you lose control of your destiny if you're always looking for external factors why you aren't performing at your best.

"I always believe, no matter the circumstances, you can still win games and you can still ask your players to perform.

"I've always been a firm believer of that. It's still in our hands and I back the players we have to play well."