Newcastle United £85m selection boost v Crystal Palace — plus Alexander Isak, Joe Willock & Sven Botman update

Newcastle United are set to welcome back two key players for the visit of Crystal Palace to St James’ Park on Saturday afternoon (kick-off 3pm).

Magpies head coach Eddie Howe has confirmed Joelinton’s expected return after the Brazilian missed the previous two matches against Paris Saint-Germain and West Ham United with a hamstring issue.

And in-form winger Anthony Gordon is also set to be recalled to the starting XI after he was forced to serve a one-match suspension for 2-2 draw at the London Stadium last time out.

Speaking at his pre-Palace press conference, Howe said Gordon: “Anthony has been magificent this season, his game has gone to another level. I think he’s said his fitness levels have gone to another level as well. We saw on the first day of pre-season with us when he performed really well in our testing.

“He’s had a real determination to do well and he’s been consistent. The suspension, losing him was a big blow for us because of his consistent form and he’s just become a Dad for the first time so a lot has happened in his life during a short period of time but I think he’s in a really good place.”

On Joelinton, Howe added: He’s trained well. He’s done a lot of work so I’m confident, as I sit here now, he’s going to be OK and return to the form we know he can produce.

“He’s a huge player for us. We did have a few injuries, not everything’s cleared up and we’re not in perfect order but we’re certainly looking a little bit better.”

Howe also provided an update on the fitness of Alexander Isak and Sven Botman. Isak’s two goals at West Ham took his tally to seven for the campaign but a groin issue late in the match forced the Swede to withdraw from international duty.

“Alex hasn’t trained with us yet,” Howe revealed. “He’s going to leave it late to see if he’s fit and available.”

Botman hasn’t featured since scoring his first Newcastle goal in the 8-0 victory at Sheffield United last month. When asked about the Dutchman, Howe gave little away about a potential return v Palace.

He said: “Sven’s improving. The two weeks has been good for him.”

Meanwhile, Joe Willock has finally returned to training after nearly six months out. The former Arsenal man picked up a hamstring injury in the latter stages of last season before sustaining a fresh Achilles injury in August.

“I want him back! Of course we have to do sensibly,” Howe said. “He’s trained this week for the first time back with the group.

“It’s probably a bit early for him to be involved in the matchday squad but he’s getting closer. He’s a huge player for us.”