Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has been speaking to the media before Tuesday’s Premier League game against Tottenham at St James’ Park (20:15 GMT).
Here are the key lines from his news conference:
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Howe began by confirming Yoane Wissa took part in an 11v11 training game while the Magpies beat Everton on Saturday: “He’ll have another one at some stage this week and we’ll see how close he is.”
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On Sven Botman’s fitness: “He’s going to see a specialist in the next couple of days to get a definitive opinion on whether he needs an injection or whether he’s able to rest for a few days and resume training. He’s one of a number of players we’ll analyse early this week and try to get a proper diagnosis.”
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On Aaron Ramsdale, who started his first Premier League game for the club on Saturday: “I’m sure he felt good returning back to Newcastle after the game. He can be very pleased – it’s a really good start from him and I’m sure he’s in a really good place.”
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Howe was pleased with Anthony Elanga’s performance against the Toffees: “He set the tone for us and he can be very pleased with his contribution. He’s beginning to settle into the rhythm of life at Newcastle because it is a change for any player. I see a very level, steady performer and I think he’ll continue to get better and better.”
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On Malick Thiaw, who scored his first goals for the club: “It’s an interesting one with Malick because he’s ended up, if you look back at our set-plays, getting his head on quite a bit, so his movement, his aggression and his timing is really good. But he hadn’t put the finishing touches to that in the way he did on Saturday with two great headers. It’s great to see that work coming good for us.”
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Asked how Newcastle can improve, Howe said: “It’s vitally important we find the consistency we’re searching for. It seems like we’re going between Champions League and Premier League and not quite finding that sweet spot we’ve been searching for all season. Hopefully this is the turning point for us.”
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On Lewis Miley, who also started: “He’s there on merit and he’s fighting for a starting place. He’s impressing me with how he’s training and how he’s preparing himself for every opportunity he gets. It was a big moment for him on Saturday. He wanted the ball, he was very good with the ball, that was key for us. He played with calmness and control.”
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Asked about facing Spurs, Howe said: “Every opponent we face in the Premier League is so difficult and now we face Tottenham, who are a very good team with their own strengths. We’ll put our plan in place to try to find a way to win.”
Follow all of Monday’s Premier League news conferences and the rest of the day’s football news