Newcastle United were dealt another huge injury scare with Alexander Isak limping out of the 3-1 victory against Aston Villa on Tuesday night.
The Magpies recorded their first Premier League away win since September and moved up to seventh in the table after ending a run of four straight defeats. However, the win was slightly overshadowed by Isak's withdrawal in the 43rd minute.
With Isak now a doubt for Saturday's Premier League at home to Luton Town, United could be without a senior recognised striker. Callum Wilson has missed the last five matches with a calf issue but it's hoped he is closing in on a return.
"Our luck has been out all season with injuries, it's just been a catalogue," Howe told NewcastleWorld. "As soon as we get someone kind of strength something happens and we lose that strength.
"It was just nice that we had Miggy [Almiron] to bring on the pitch today when Alex got injured. Miggy was only 50% fit really due to his illness and I thought he did brilliantly to play as well as he did despite not feeling well.
"Let's see when Callum is going to come back. I'm just really pleased with the whole group."
Howe says Wilson and summer signing Harvey Barnes are the closest players to returning. United have been without Barnes since the 8-0 win at Sheffield United in September because of a toe injury.
Here, NewcastleWorld takes a look at Newcastle United's current absentee list in full and when each player is expected to return:
1. Sandro Tonali - banned (out)
Tonali is suspended from football until August 2024 following an investigation into illegal betting activity. Possible return date: August 2024.
2. Joelinton - thigh (out)
Joelinton underwent thigh surgery in January and won't return until May at the earliest. Possible return date: May 2024.
3. Callim Wilson - pectoral muscle (out)
The Newcastle No.9 underwent surgery on his pectoral muscle and won't return until the latter part of the season. Possible return date: April/ May 2024.
4. Nick Pope - shoulder (out)
Pope dislocated his shoulder in the Premier League win over Manchester United and won't return until late April. Possible return date: Sheffield United (H) 27/04.