Newcastle United remain without Allan Saint-Maximin for the visit of Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday afternoon (kick-off 2pm).
The Frenchman hasn’t featured since the 5-1 win at West Ham United just over a fortnight ago after feeling discomfort in his hamstring.
As a result, Saint-Maximin has missed games against Brentford and Aston Villa, although Magpies’ head coach Eddie Howe was hopeful he’d return in time for Spurs.
However, during Friday’s press conference, Howe confirmed the 25-year-old was still in France, where he has been receiving treatment on his injury.
“No, he’s not back in the country yet,” said Howe “We will see him early next week. But Maxi’s fine.”
Asked if there had been a setback, Howe said: “There hasn’t been a setback, it’s just taken maybe a little bit longer than initially thought but no major setback. With hamstring injuries, we have to be careful.”
Saint-Maximin is among eight Newcastle and Spurs players that will miss the clash at St James’ Park - with another doubtful. Here’s the team news in full.
1. GettyImages-1247265237.jpg
2. Emil Krafth - out
Krafth is recovering well from the ACL injury he sustained in August but isn’t expected to return until next season. Photo: Gualter Fatia
3. Ryan Fraser - out
Fraser has spent the last couple of months training with the under-21s after falling out with Howe. Photo: Ian MacNicol
4. Yves Bissouma - out
Bissouma is recovering from ankle surgery.