Eddie Howe Updates on Bruno, Miley Before Villa FA Cup Match
The Magpies are gearing up for an important FA Cup fourth-round clash against Aston Villa this Saturday. The match kicks off at 5:45 PM GMT, following a successful outing against Bournemouth in the previous round and a vital victory over Tottenham Hotspur.
Eddie Howe Discusses Team Updates Ahead of FA Cup Match
Head coach Eddie Howe provided vital updates on key players Bruno Guimarães and Lewis Miley during his pre-match media briefing. Both players are facing fitness concerns ahead of the match.
Bruno Guimarães’ Injury Status
- Guimarães suffered a hamstring injury during the recent match against Tottenham.
- Howe confirmed that the severity of the injury is still unknown.
Lewis Miley’s Condition
- Miley is dealing with a dead leg following a significant thigh knock.
- Howe stated there is some muscle damage, but does not expect it to be a long-term issue.
- Scans are being conducted every few days to monitor Miley’s recovery.
Joelinton and Tino Livramento’s Progress
Positive news was also shared regarding the fitness of Joelinton and Tino Livramento. Howe noted that:
- Joelinton is progressing well but is unlikely to play in this match.
- He is eager to return and feels good about his recovery.
- Livramento is on track for early March and is back to running and building fitness.
Importance of the FA Cup
Howe emphasized the significance of a strong FA Cup run for the team. He expressed the desire to advance far in the tournament, reflecting on last year’s disappointment when they exited prematurely. The upcoming match against Aston Villa poses a tough challenge, but the focus remains on winning.
Momentum from Recent Victory
The win over Tottenham has notably boosted the team’s morale. Howe believes that this victory can change the entire atmosphere at the training ground, highlighting the importance of consistency in their performance.
The Magpies now look forward to the match at Villa Park, aiming to carry their momentum into the upcoming FA Cup challenge.
