'He is improving' - Newcastle boss delivers positive update as UCL qualification comes down to final day

Newcastle fans will be delighted with the news that key man Alexander Isak, who has contributed 23 goals and six assists, could be back to face Everton this weekend.

"He's doing pretty well. He hasn't trained with us yet, but he's made good progress this week. The next two days will be absolutely key in determining his availability. It's difficult to say more right now.

"Until he trains with the team, we won't know how he'll respond to the demands of training and a match. We'll only play him if he's able to contribute. At the moment, he has a potential chance," Howe told the Associated Press.

The Magpies will be keen to take all three points, especially against an Everton team with nothing to play for.

There's only a three-point gap between third place, guaranteeing Champions League football, and seventh, which secures a spot in the Conference League. Newcastle currently sit fourth, and will be guaranteed a spot in UEFA's top competition with a win.