Newcastle United's record summer signing, Yoane Wissa, is finally on the verge of making his competitive debut for the club after a lengthy injury layoff.
Wissa Returns to Full Training
Manager Eddie Howe delivered an encouraging update on Friday, confirming that the £55 million striker has resumed full training with the first-team squad. Wissa, who joined from Brentford three months ago, has been sidelined since suffering a knee injury while on international duty with DR Congo shortly after his high-profile move.
"He's getting closer," Howe told reporters. The 29-year-old forward took a significant step forward by participating in an 11-a-side match in midweek, playing for around 30 minutes. Howe noted, "That was good, more minutes for him. Around about half an hour, and he did well."
Decision Pending for Burnley Clash
A final decision on whether Wissa will be available for selection for Saturday's Premier League fixture against Burnley at St James' Park was to be made following Friday's training session. Howe emphasised that the player must be "fit to make a difference and perform to his highest levels" before being thrown into action.
In a further boost for the Magpies, it has been confirmed that Wissa will not be departing for the Africa Cup of Nations in the new year, having been omitted from the DR Congo squad. The player acknowledged this on social media, posting on Instagram: "I'll be the number one supporter! Big up to the family."
Newcastle Seek to Solidify Home Form
Wissa's potential return comes as Newcastle look to maintain their strong home record, having remained unbeaten at St James' Park in the Premier League since August. However, the team is keen to address a concerning trend of dropping points from winning positions, having conceded a late equaliser in a 1-1 draw with Tottenham Hotspur on Tuesday.
That result means Newcastle have now dropped 11 points from winning positions this season, a joint-high in the division. Addressing the issue, Howe stated: "I don't think there's any mysterious reason for that underneath. We're looking at patterns and trends all the time and I don't think there's something fundamentally wrong but we can certainly do better."
Howe also provided a positive update on midfielder Sandro Tonali, who was forced off against Tottenham. "He's had a scan and we don't think it's too bad," said Howe. "It was a knock very similar to the one Joelinton suffered, a dead leg type feeling."
