Newcastle United are set to welcome back Jacob Murphy for Saturday evening's FA Cup fourth clash away to Fulham (kick-off 7pm).
The Magpies have been without the winger since the 1-0 win over Arsenal on November 4 after he underwent surgery on a dislocated shoulder. The 28-year-old originally sustained the issue in the 1-0 defeat to Borussia Dortmund before it happened again 10 days later.
After nine weeks out, Murphy returned to light training before the Premier League winter break and the two weeks without a game has allowed him to make good progress on the training pitch.
There's a strong chance he will be included in the matchday squad for the visit to Craven Cottage. Harvey Barnes, Callum Wilson and Joe Willock, however, remained sidelined but are on track to return in the coming weeks.
Howe said: “Still a long injury list! Jacob Murphy has trained and he’s looked good, so I’m pleased with his progress. That’s a big positive.
"Apart from that, no one else is there. They are all still working back to full fitness but are getting closer, the likes of Harvey, Callum, Joe Willock are showing good signs."
Earlier this week, Newcastle delivered the news that Joelinton will be sidelined until May after undergoing groin surgery. The Brazilian's absence leaves United with just three fit senior midfielders in Sean Longstaff, Lewis Miley and Bruno Guimaraes.
Here is Newcastle United's current absentee list in full and each player's expected return date:
1. Sandro Tonali - banned
Tonali is suspended from football until August 2024 following an investigation into illegal betting activity. Possible return date: August 2024.
2. Joelinton - thigh
Joelinton underwent thigh surgery last month and won't return until May at the earliest. Possible return date: May 2024.
3. Callim Wilson - pectoral muscle
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
Pope dislocated his shoulder in the Premier League win over Manchester United in December but remains a few weeks away. Possible return date: Tottenham Hotspur (H) 13/04.