Newcastle United defender Sven Botman is in contention to return to the matchday squad for the Premier League fixture against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday (kick-off 3pm).
The Dutchman was rested for the FA Cup fifth round penalty shootout win over Blackburn Rovers on Tuesday, an evening that saw Joe Willock start his first game since November while Elliot Anderson made his first outing in four months.
Alexander Isak also got through another hour following his comeback from a groin issue.
"Yeah we could see him [against Wolves]," said Howe on Botman. “Sven’s looking good. We just felt he would benefit more from training. He’s another player who has come back from a longer term injury back into the team.
"We just felt he needs more individualised training to hopefully get back to his very best levels."
On Willock and Isak, Howe added: “They’re getting there [to full fitness]. I think Alex will get there every game. His situation is slightly different to Joe [Willock].
"Alex has had a groin problem I think three times so naturally there is maybe a feeling that he needs confidence in his body and needs confidence physically with how he is performing in games.
"Prior to his last injury Aston Villa he was looking really good but out of nowhere really he felt something again. I think these two games have been really good for him to help him feel his body is strong. Certainly, his work behind the scenes has been good and I’d like to think he’ll improve from this point onwards.
"Joe’s slightly different just because of the length of time he’s been out. Of course we are trying to nurse him back to full fitness as quickly as possible. I think that’ll take a period of time before he gets back to his very best, it’s difficult to put a timeframe on it but he’s got qualities that even if he is not 100% fit that we need.
Meanwhile, Howe confirmed Matt Targett has returned to training but won't feature against Wolves. The left-back has been out since November after undergoing hamstring surgery.
Here's the 24 players available for Newcastle United against Wolves - and the six that remained sidelined.
21. Anthony Gordon - available
The former Everton winger has been one of Newcastle's star performers this term. | Getty Images
22. Alexander Isak - available
Recently returned from three games out with a groin issue. | Getty Images
23. Nick Pope - unavailable
The Magpies goalkeeper could return ahead of schedule in March. | Getty Images
24. Kieran Trippier - out
The England international is missing with a calf injury. Hopes to return v West Ham on March 30. | Getty Images