Eddie Howe explains Federico Fernandez’s ‘mystery’ absence at Newcastle United - plus Javier Manquillo update

Eddie Howe has provided an update on Federico Fernandez and Javier Manquillo’s whereabouts at Newcastle United.

Fernandez is part of Howe’s 30-man squad in Austria but did not feature in the 3-0 friendly win over 1860 Munich on Friday - and has not been spotted in training since.

Manquillo, meanwhile, didn’t travel to the club’s training base in Saalfelden. Instead, the full-back is in Spain receiving treatment for a groin injury.

Where is Federico Fernandez?

The Argentine defender last played a competitive game for the Magpies in December, first injuring his calf before picking up a side strain.

Fernandez, 33, featured in the matchday squad for five of United’s seven remaining games last season.

“Fede has picked up a minimal calf injury,” confirmed Howe. “It’s tight but we’re taking it carefully to build him back up before he trains.

“Fede, as I’ve said many times, is one of the leaders of the group - a very positive influence around the players so I’m delighted he’s here.

“We hope to get him back on the pitch as soon as possible.”

And what about Javier Manquillo?

Manquillo missed the final eight games of last season with Emil Krafth preferred at right-back in place of the injured Kieran Trippier.

Howe said: “He’s got a groin problem that he had at the end of last season. It wasn’t fixed in the summer so he’s away having treatment in Barcelona or Madrid but I think he should be back maybe around the Portugal trip or maybe just after to train.”

What’s the latest with Jamal Lewis?

Jamal Lewis is in Austria but has yet to fully train with the squad due to a muscle injury.

Lewis, left out of the 25-man squad for the second half of last season, is hoping to reignite his Magpies career after a frustrating two years since arriving from Norwich City.