Howe is happy with the state of his squad for the 2024/25 season: “We are in a better position than we were for most of last season. Nick Pope is fully fit again – that’s a big deal because we have late training. Joe Willock is in a much better shape. I wouldn’t say he’s 100% match fit. He’s trained well and is definitely on his way to becoming the Joe Willock we know. We’ll also have Sandro (Tonali) soon. But we still have the legacy of the players who were injured last season, like Jamaal Lascelles and Sven Botman.”

The Magpies boss is optimistic about the new season: “That’s always the plan – to keep the best players fit. With our intense style of play, we can still do that. We’ve managed that really well. We lost Callum (Wilson), but other than that, we’re in great shape. The squad is very healthy and motivated. Fitness-wise, we’re looking very good. Overall, I’m happy.”

Howe elaborated on Wilson’s fitness: “Callum will be (back) at the start of the season. After a few games. He’s making great progress, feels good and wants to progress faster, but we’re trying to plan for his return.”

On Newcastle’s transfer plans: “Everyone is looking for the best players. When everyone is fit, we have a very good squad, so it’s difficult to sign players and improve the squad. You don’t want to sign a player and then find out afterwards that he didn’t help you. You have to avoid that.”

Howe hopes the Magpies can delight their fans at St. James’ Park on Saturday: “We know the fans will be on our side. We know how important they are and the atmosphere at St. James’ Park was incredible last season. But we need to do the right things in terms of intent and all the right things that can make the difference. At home we need to repeat last year’s result.”