Eddie Howe reveals which ‘exceptional’ Newcastle United player is back in contention for Leicester City

Ryan Fraser is set to return to Newcastle United’s matchday squad for the trip to Leicester City.

The Scotland international missed last Saturday’s 1-0 victory over Burnley with a minor hamstring problem.

Indeed, Fraser was expected to start against the Clarets having been sacrificed for Federico Fernandez

just nine minutes into United’s 1-1 draw with Norwich City following Ciaran Clark’s red card.

The 27-year-old is likely to be involved when Howe’s side travel to the King Power Stadium eyeing another three points to aid their Premier League survival.

Eddie Howe’s full of praise for Ryan Fraser

Howe said: "Ryan’s trained very, very well, hence why he came into the team for the Norwich game.

“Going back again, he came on against Brentford and created the goal for Allan (Saint-Maximin) with a beautiful cross.

“That’s sort of his trademark, his assists record is second to none, or at least it was, certainly, for me at Bournemouth.

“I know there’s a real want from him to prove himself here, to show everyone his talents and how effective he can be in the Premier League.

“I believe he can be. I think he can be a real difference-maker in a couple of positions. A creative player, a very dynamic player. Set-play delivery as well can’t be ignored. It’s exceptional.

“He’s giving his all in training and has looked really bright.

“Unfortunately last week he had a tight hamstring, we didn’t want to risk him. He’s very much in my thoughts for now and the future."

Could Ryan Fraser start against Leicester City?

Howe is clearly a big fan of the player having previously worked with him long-term at Bournemouth.

But, will Howe find it difficult to change a winning team?

His replacement Miguel Almiron impressed during the win over Burnley, and Howe praised him hugely in his pre-match press conference.

Howe said: "When you give someone an opportunity you want them to take it and leave positive thoughts in your mind and I thought Miggy did that last week.

“His energy is very infectious. His attitude, you could see how he plays, what he gives the team and I thought his work rate from a defensive perspective was very, very good.

“But also, he had really good moments going forward and very good runs in behind.

“His stats from the weekend were incredible really, so he’s going to be a really, really important player for us. He’s somebody I really like.”

Joelinton and Callum Wilson are undroppable at the moment.

A system chance might provide an opening at right-wing back for example but Javier Manquillo and Jacob Murphy would also be vying for that slot.